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5 months ago
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Footy great Brendan Fevola has sensationally declared AFL superstar Dustin Martin will retire from the sport as soon as he chalks up his 300 career game milestone for Richmond - but will then lace his boots for the Gold Coast Suns next season.
Speaking on Fox FM's Fifi, Fev & Nick breakfast show on Tuesday morning, Fevola revealed he has it on good authority that Martin's tenure at the Tigers - where he won three premierships - is drawing to a close far quicker than most expected.
It is understood Martin's manager Ralph Carr has been shopping for houses on the Gold Coast for his star client.
A move to the Glitter Strip in 2025 would also see Martin link up with his previous coach Damien Hardwick.
'They [Richmond] want to play him at the MCG [against Hawthorn] for his 300th game. Dusty has been waiting for his 300th game,' Fevola said.
Brendan Fevola has declared Dustin Martin will retire as soon as he reaches his 300th game milestone for Richmond - but will then turn out for the Gold Coast Suns next season
Dustin Martin made his AFL debut for the Tigers in 2010 - and has gone onto win three premierships (pictured, in action versus Essendon on May 25 at the MCG)
Fevola also declared a move to the Gold Coast would see Dustin Martin become the 'centrepiece of Queensland football'
'There's a lot of rumours about him and next year, whether he will retire or play somewhere else.
'My mail is that he will retire after he plays his 300th game. Say thank you to the Richmond fans after his 300th.
'Then have a couple of months off. Get fit. And get his head right.'
Fevola added that Martin will be 'getting paid a lot of money to go up to the Gold Coast', where he can 'play as a full-forward and mentor the playing group'.
The Suns have never played finals footy since entering the competition in 2011.
The Carlton great was a fan of the potential move, adamant Martin, 32, 'would be the centrepiece of Queensland football.'
A move to the Suns in 2025 would see Martin link up with his previous coach Damien Hardwick (pictured)
It comes as Martin turned back the clock on May 25 with a scintillating performance against Essendon at the MCG.
While the Bombers ran out 12-point winners, Martin kicked three goals and to showcase his class.
Martin answered his many critics, with veteran footy journalist Caroline Wilson recently stating the three-time Norm Smith Medallist was 'limping towards' 300 games - before adding her belief that Dusty's form this campaign hasn't warranted a contract extension at Punt Rd.
It has been a season to forget for the Tigers and coach Adam Yze, with just one win from 11 games as they battle to avoid the wooden spoon alongside winless North Melbourne.
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