SAM FROST is in no rush to start contract talks with Melbourne, with the much-improved key defender happy to focus on his football until later in the season.

A toe injury delayed Frost's start to 2017 until round four, but the 23-year-old has not missed a game since and has taken some significant strides.

His rapid development has enabled Melbourne to use Tom McDonald, at times, in attack and the ruck, content that the 194cm former Giant can effectively man an opposition tall and provide lively counter-attack.

Match preview: West Coast v Melbourne

The three-year deal Frost signed when he crossed from Greater Western Sydney in the 2014 trade period is due to expire at the end of this season.

AFL.com.au understands the Demons recently approached Frost's management about opening talks on a new deal, but were told the defender would prefer to defer talks until later in the season.

Key defenders are in high demand this year, with clubs such as Hawthorn and the Western Bulldogs looking to bolster their height in defence, while the Demons have been strongly linked to emerging Adelaide star Jake Lever.

Frost appears unlikely to seek a move to a third AFL home, especially when he seems established in a Melbourne team on the rise, but opposition clubs will monitor his contractual situation with interest.

In nine games this season, Frost has averaged almost 15 possessions a game, while he is ranked second at the Demons in average rebound 50s (4.1 a game) and third in one-percenters (5.2).

Frost is due to celebrate his 50th AFL game on Saturday night against the West Coast Eagles.

He played 21 games at GWS from 2012-14 before joining Melbourne in exchange for 2014's No.23 draft pick.