SYDNEY CEO Andrew Ireland has put a dampener on discussions surrounding the playing future of Dan Hannebery, believing the midfielder will stay with the Swans next year.

The 27-year-old is contracted until the end of 2021, but there have been reports St Kilda has offered him a five-year-deal to return to Melbourne.

"Dan's got a three-year contract with us. I guess sometimes these sorts of discussions get a bit out of control. He's got a three-year contract with us, we've got a lot to do through the rest of the year [with finals]," Ireland told Macquarie Sports Radio. 

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"Dan's very committed to the club. If something was going to happen, it's appropriate it happens later in the year. I don't think it will, Dan will still be with us for the remainder of his contract.

"We didn't sign him on that long-term contract, nor did he sign his side of the contract, not to be with us. Whilst there's a lot of talk about it, I expect a much, much higher percentage that he's going to be with us going forward."

Ireland was also asked about priority picks, a hot issue in recent weeks among coaches and club officials alike.

Carlton and Gold Coast have often been the clubs mentioned in relation to priority picks.

The Blues have won just two games for the season, while the Suns have won four in a year that saw them unable to play a home game until round 11 due to the Commonwealth Games.

"When it comes to priority picks, I think we get into a different position and everyone has a different view. I think the Suns do need help. When you start a new team in a tougher market, in the difficult circumstances they're in – whether it's been a bit caused by themselves or not – I think they desperately need some help," Ireland said.

"So, I wouldn't be against them getting some help. It's probably not just priority picks, there's probably other areas they need help in as well.

"Carlton I'm probably a little less sympathetic to, and that's probably simply because I think they're a stronger club and have the capacity to get through where they are a little bit more.

"They're probably a little bit further developed in some ways, and they don't seem to have the pressure the Suns have in terms of trying to retain their better players."