OUT-of-contract Essendon forward Stewart Crameri could command a deal worth up to $1.8 million if he decides to pursue rival options at the end of the year. 

Crameri's contract expires at the end of this season, and although AFL.com.au understands he is likely to stay with the Bombers, a number of clubs are interested in the 24-year-old.

The Western Bulldogs are one of the clubs keen on the dynamic forward however it is understood the Dogs have not tabled a formal offer for Crameri. 

Crameri formed a close relationship with Brendan McCartney when McCartney was Essendon's forward line coach in 2011 before he won the senior coaching role with the Bulldogs.

Some industry sources think Crameri could be paid as much as $400-450,000 a season over several years at a rival club.

But as the Bombers move into a premiership window, Crameri will likely forgo the opportunity of a larger pay packet elsewhere and follow the likes of captain Jobe Watson and young stars Dyson Heppell and Jake Carlisle in recommitting to the club.

Crameri, elevated off the rookie list, made his AFL debut at the end of 2010 but burst onto the scene in 2011 with his pace, strength and goalkicking.

He was the club's leading goalkicker that season, a feat he achieved again last year. He is on track to do the same in 2013 having already booted 23 goals from 10 games.

Essendon has done a strong job of managing its list through the AFL's expansion era, signing many of its key players, including Michael Hurley and Patrick Ryder, to long-term deals.

Brendon Goddard was signed on a four-year deal through to the end of 2016 as a free agent, while star midfielder David Zaharakis still has a year to run on his contract to the end of 2014.  

Ruckman Tom Bellchambers, midfielder Jake Melksham, key defender Cale Hooker and small forward Alwyn Davey are among other Bombers out of contract at the end of this season.
 
Follow AFL website reporter Callum Twomey on Twitter at @AFL_CalTwomey.