West Coast are set to play hard-ball with contracted forward Liam Ryan after the premiership star formally requested a trade.

The Eagles confirmed the 28-year-old expressed his desire to move clubs during his exit meeting on Tuesday, despite a year to run on his current contract.

“During our end-of-season player review process, Liam informed the club of his request to be traded,” West Coast list boss Matt Clarke said.

“Given his contract status and importance to our developing squad, we have reiterated to Liam that he is a required player at our football club, and we view him as part of our future.

“Out of respect to Liam and his management, we will continue discussions over the coming weeks.”

Ryan has been linked to St Kilda in recent months, with a multi-year deal reportedly on the table from the Saints.

The Subiaco product, who has kicked 158 goals over 125 games in blue and gold, signed a two-year extension with the Eagles last January.

Ryan’s trade request came just five days after West Coast coach Andrew McQualter declared: “Liam will be with us next year”.

“Liam’s a contracted player. He’s an important player for us,” he said.

“If you read every article about player movement this time of the year, there’s 500 players changing clubs, which we know doesn’t end up happening like that.

“There’s always good players like Liam...they attract interest from other clubs which we understand.

“Liam will be with us next year.”

The revelation came just hours after West Coast confirmed Harley Reid has re-signed for two more years.