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AARON Black could finally be on the way out of North Melbourne, his manager Jason Dover suggested on Monday.

Black, 24, is contracted until 2017 after signing a four-year contract at the end of 2013. He kicked a combined 59 goals in 2013 and 2014 but played only three games this year.

The addition of Jarrad Waite and Shaun Higgins at the end of last year meant there was no room for Black in the Roos’ forward line.

“We’ve probably been a little disappointed in that instance. Some of the players brought in might have gone past Aaron,” Dover said on NAB AFL Trade Radio.

“Aaron made the choice to stay at the Kangaroos because of loyalty. Perhaps in hindsight, we may look at it differently.

“It’s been 12 months now he’s been treading water.”

Fremantle came hard for the West Australian in 2013 and 2014 and looms again as an option for Black next year.

The Dockers finished twelfth in points-for per game despite being minor premiers. With Matthew Pavlich turning 34 by the end of the year and possibly considering retirement, the need for Fremantle to recruit another forward increases.

Dover refused to comment when categorically asked if Black had asked to be traded.

“Hopefully we can explore some opportunities that might mean a fresh start for Aaron elsewhere.”