LACHIE Neale has opened contract talks with Fremantle in a boost to the Dockers' hopes of retaining the in-demand midfielder.

Neale, who comes out of contract at the end of this season, resisted Freo's attempts to open negotiations earlier this year, preferring to focus on making a strong start to the home and away season.

But the 23-year-old recently told Fremantle he was ready to turn his mind to his post-2016 future and discussions have begun.

AFL.com.au understands those talks remain at a preliminary stage contrary to some reports suggesting a new deal is imminent.

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Although Neale and the club could agree to terms quickly if negotiations go smoothly, sticking points could also arise that delay any deal for some time.

Rival clubs remain keenly interested in the South Australian, with Adelaide, North Melbourne, Richmond and Essendon among those already linked to him.

Neale, however, is talking exclusively with Fremantle and won't entertain opposition offers for the time being.

Industry sources suggest Neale could command a salary of up to $600,000 a season if he were to leave Fremantle, but most rival clubs now suspect he will stay.

Neale has been a key member of the Dockers' on-ball division since his breakthrough 2014 season.

Last year, he was Freo's leading possession winner, averaging 27.4 possessions a game to finish sixth in the club best and fairest award.

Amid the Dockers' disastrous 0-9 start to 2016, Neale has enhanced his standing at the club even further.

With Brownlow medallist Nat Fyfe sidelined for the rest of the year with a broken leg, Neale has stepped up to lead Freo's midfield.

Over the first nine rounds, he has averaged 33.7 possessions a game – 10 possessions more than the next Docker, Fyfe, and 11 possessions more than David Mundy and Stephen Hill.

Neale also leads Freo in clearances and centre clearances, is third for marks and fourth for tackles.

*Fremantle recruited Neale with pick No.58 in the 2011 NAB AFL Draft.