‘Simple solution’: Phil Gould reveals why Matt Burton is talking to rival clubs

Key points

• Bulldogs football boss Phil Gould has confirmed that Matt Burton can approach rival clubs before he officially becomes a free agent. Gould said the early approach would help both parties gauge Burton's true value.
• He stressed that he loves Burton, wants to keep him, and that neither side has yet discussed money for 2028 onwards.
• Burton reportedly wanted to play five-eighth rather than centre, and is believed to be of interest to the Chiefs, Bears, Parramatta and Penrith.