THE WESTERN Bulldogs look set to secure in-form wingman Bailey Dale, with coach Luke Beveridge saying he was close to re-signing with the premiers.

It's been a breakout season for Dale, 20, with his speed, sound foot skills and nose for a goal complementing the Dogs' array of inside midfielders.

In 11 games this season, the Edithvale-Aspendale product has averaged 18 disposals and kicked 10 goals.

Asked where Dale's contract negotiations were at after the he slotted a career-best three goals in the win over Gold Coast in Cairns, coach Luke Beveridge said a deal wasn't far away.

"We're talking to Bailey's management, and we have been for a while, so hopefully an agreement is imminent," Beveridge said post-match.

"It's not too far away, and it will be another exciting announcement once we agree to terms with him.

"He's got a sound future."

Dale told AFL.com.au back in June he has no intention of leaving Whitten Oval, and wanted to build on three solid years of development.

Taken with pick 45 in the 2014 NAB AFL Draft, Dale has played 27 games since his debut in round seven, 2015.

"You wait for your opportunity and you've got to prove yourself at the level," Dale said.

"I feel like I've been patient, I know where I'm at (as a player) and I know I'm probably not going to hold my spot every single week.

"Hopefully I can stay at the Dogs for as long as I can because this is where I want to be."

If the deal is completed, Dale will join Easton Wood, Jason Johannisen, Lewis Young, Clay Smith, Marcus Adams and Tim English as key players to recommit to the club in 2017.