MELBOURNE is optimistic is can secure dual Geelong premiership player Shannon Byrnes.

The small goalkicking forward/midfielder is right in the mix to join the Demons according to general manager of list management Tim Harrington.

“We have an interest in Shannon, because we see he can fill a particular role within our team,” Harrington told melbournefc.com.au.

“Coming from a successful club and having had success himself - we think he would be a good fit for what he brings onto the field. But we also see what he brings in experience and what he’s done for his own club at Geelong previously.

“So there is some genuine interest in Shannon.”

The 28-year-old has played 108 AFL matches since making his debut in 2004.

He played in Geelong’s 2007 and 2009 premierships.