Young gun Jamarra Ugle-Hagan of the Western Bulldogs is reportedly the “most in-demand key forward” in the Australian football league, and a Victorian competitor is “well and truly in the race” to sign the former No. 1 draft pick.

Ugle-Hagan is one of the few Dogs players who has not committed to the team again beyond 2024. The Bulldogs are hopeful that the young forward will join Aaron Naughton, his offensive partner, in signing a long-term contract.

Among those without contracts for the following season are midfielder Bailey Smith and all-Australian Tim English, giving list manager Sam Power a sizable season of retention.

After a strong 35-goal season the previous year, Ugle-Hagan, who is about to start his fourth season at the Kennel, is seen to be poised for a breakthrough campaign in the blue, white, and red.

Rival clubs are reportedly becoming interested in the 21-year-old due to his upside and contract status; Hawthorn is the most recent club to show interest in him.
As they try to improve their key position stocks going forward, the Hawks are keen to partner Ugle-Hagan with spearhead Mitch Lewis, according to 7 News’ Mitch Cleary, while the Dogs are confident in extending the young player’s contract.

As of right now, Jamarra Ugle-Hagan is the competition’s most sought-after key forward. Many people think that this year will be the one when he blows up,” Cleary said on Wednesday night.

The Dogs are currently quite certain that he will resign and that their situation is favourable, but Hawthorn has joined the competition to sign Jamarra Ugle-Hagan.

“We are aware that they have salary cap room and are pursuing both a key forward and a key back. They recently pursued Todd Marshall, Ben King, and Aaron Naughton, but they were unsuccessful in obtaining him.The Hawks have a firm lead in the competition for Jamarra Ugle-Hagan. It’s known that Sydney and the Pies have been connected, but Hawthorn is determined to pair Jamarra Ugle-Hagan and Mitch Lewis as a vital offensive component.

“The dogs are confident he will be their man for the future.”

Aside from Lewis, the Hawks’ primary forwards are veteran Jack Gunston and recent addition Mabior Chol. Max Ramsden and Calsher Dear are two up-and-coming players who join swingman Denver Grainger-Barras as backup possibilities.

Hawthorn will probably step up their efforts to add experienced personnel this year as part of their rebuilding under head coach Sam Mitchell before turning more of their attention toward making the playoffs.

With Ugle-Hagan joining the team, Lewis and the Western Bulldogs NGA graduate would have a devastating one-two combination going forward as Mitchell tries to lead the Hawks back to the top.

Since his debut in 2021, Ugle-Hagan has played 45 games with the Bulldogs, totaling 60 goals.