Fremantle coach Ross Lyon says the race for Harley Bennell could come down to the West Australian clubs as the talented but troubled high draft pick eyes a fresh start in his home state. 
Lyon confirmed the Dockers were considering embracing the 22-year-old and giving him an "opportunity to grow" via the connection he has to many of the club's current players.
Gold Coast have put the former No.2 draft pick up for trade because of a series of off-field incidents which created headlines during his short time at the club.
Having fallen short in another run at a premiership, it's expected the Dockers will be an active player in the exchange period in an effort to add more offence.
While the club's main target is a key forward, Bennell is another player who would provide more attacking flair and a high skill level.
"Harley wants to come home. There's two clubs in Perth, he's got a really strong connection with a lot of our players," he said on Channel Nine on Tuesday night.
"In saying that, everyone's exploring all options, but he's obviously a very talented young man.
"His family's in WA down in Mandurah and he's close to his family. That all points well for a WA club to maybe embrace Harley and give him an opportunity to grow."
It's unclear whether West Coast have any interest in Bennell, and either West Australian club would have facilitate a trade with the Suns to acquire him.
Several Victorian clubs have been linked to the explosive midfielder, including Richmond and North Melbourne, who think his pace and polish could add to their pursuit of a premiership.