Melbourne are “very, very nervous” about the prospect of losing promising defender Judd McVee at season’s end, with growing speculation the West Australian could seek a return home in 2025.
McVee, originally from East Fremantle, is out of contract at the end of the year and, according to Channel 10’s Lachy Reid, is yet to engage in meaningful talks with the Demons about a new deal.
While no decision has been made, the 20-year-old is said to be considering a move back to WA.
“There’s a fair bit going on”: McVee yet to commit
“Look, I think there's a fair bit going on with Judd McVee,” Reid told SEN WA’s The Run Home. “I haven't been officially told whether he's put his contract on hold indefinitely, but there has been no deal with the Melbourne Footy Club.”
“I am told within the four walls of the Melbourne Football Club that they're very, very nervous because they really rate him. He’s a small defender that I reckon has the ability to go up the ground and become a midfielder or wingman.”
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McVee has played 58 games since being picked up in the 2021 rookie draft, and while he had a tough outing over the weekend, Reid said it was “a rare occurrence” in what has otherwise been a steady year.
“I’m not saying he's leaving,” Reid added, “but there is certainly consideration for him to come back home.”
In 2025, McVee has averaged 15.3 disposals and 4.9 marks across 10 games, continuing to develop into one of Melbourne’s most reliable young talents and potentially, one of their hardest to keep.