MITCH Clark's football future will become clearer in the next week, although there is no guarantee he will be playing at an AFL club next year.
The retired Demons big man has expressed an interest in making a return to football next season, but it is understood clubs will do their due diligence in requesting physical and mental tests with Clark.
Only after those tests would they consider recruiting Clark.
Clark's manager Colin Young met with members of the AFLPA and Melbourne officials last Friday to discuss Clark's situation.
One of the points of discussion was whether Clark could return to the Demons or whether it would be in his best interests to play at another club.
Clark's physical conditioning will be a deciding factor, according to Young.
"If he does do another fitness test with the Melbourne footy club and doesn't get through then he won't be playing next year," Young told SEN on Monday evening.
"Whether it's with Melbourne or any club it'll be a psychological test or a fitness test to see where his well-being is."
Melbourne coach Paul Roos met with Clark on Monday to discuss his future and the key forward has not ruled out a return to the Demons.
"Look I'd love to stay at Melbourne but I haven't even spoken to Roosy (prior to the meeting)," Clark told Channel Seven.
"I've been doing a fair bit of work and hopefully I can stay healthy.
"I'm keen to get back. I always had the view that I needed to get away to get back and that's what I've done."
Demons football manager Josh Mahoney confirmed the club would explore its options with Clark.
"We have to get as much information as we can over the next few weeks about how serious he is about returning to AFL football," Mahoney told 3AW on Monday night.
"We have to make sure that Mitch is clear about returning to AFL football and that's going to help us with our decision."
Clark's management and the club agreed on a financial settlement when the forward announced his retirement in April. It is understood the Demons would need to sort out a new contract arrangement as of next season if Clark played for the club in 2015.
The forward has been working closely with Melbourne's fitness staff – in particular elite performance manager Dave Misson – who had set him a fitness program to help him reach his physical peak once again.
The club has also supported him in his recovery after he was diagnosed with depression.
Young revealed up to six AFL clubs had already made contact once Clark confirmed he was mulling over a return.
If Clark did move to another club it would likely be through this year's trade period, although Young said Clark has made it clear he does not want to let Melbourne down.
"Mitchell would not walk away from the Melbourne footy club without them getting compensated," Young said.
"Mitchell also did them a massive favour by walking away from a very lucrative contract and also free up a space on their list."
