AFL: Buddy Franklin laughs at awkward Sydney question amid contract break

A relaxed Buddy Franklin laughed at an awkward question about his Sydney future as uncertainty mounts over where the superstar forward will play next season.

The Herald Sun reported earlier this week that the 35-year-old is considering a move to a third AFL club or retire from football altogether after failing to change a lowball contract extension offered by the Swans.

And after helping his team to a 17-point win over top-eight rivals Fremantle, Franklin remained coy about his AFL future when quizzed by Dockers legend Matthew Pavlich.

Buddy Franklin laughed at an awkward question about his future with the Sydney Swans

“I’ve been playing for 18 years mate so I’m pretty used to all those comments,” he said.

“You just put it aside, move on, come out of here, everyone, like I said, played really well and are really happy with that win.”

Pavlich replied, “But you like the red and the white, I’m sure?”

Franklin, who wasn’t quick to fall into the AFL legend’s games, giggled and shook Pavlich’s hand before leaving.

“Too smart for Pav,” Jason Dunstall responded to Fox Footy. “He just brushed it,” Adam Papalia added.

The 35-year-old is reflecting on his future after receiving a “lowball” contract offer

The superstar forward could switch to a third AFL club or retire from football altogether

Franklin will be represented by his wife and newly qualified players’ agent Jesinta, who this week refused to rule out a move from Harbor City.

In a statement no doubt aimed at Swans management, she said: “We have options,” as host Kylie Gillies suggested there were plenty of other clubs who would snag Buddy.

However, she clarified that it was only “rumors” and “speculation” at this point.

“There’s always rumor and speculation surrounding Bud, and I think when he’s nearing the end of such an amazing contract, it would always happen,” explained Jesinta.

“But I think they are just that; it is rumor and speculation.”