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Former Hawk and Eagle Sam Mitchell wants to return to Melbourne.Credit:AAP

"I've said to the players and the coach that I love them,but I love my wife and my family more. That's where my priority needs to be.

"It's never been my intention to move out early but that has become a necessity."

After a high-profile trade from the Hawks in 2016,the 35-year-old played 22 games for the Eagles last season before retiring and moving into West Coast's coaching ranks.

Mitchell wouldn't respond to speculation the Eagles will attempt to hold him to his contract,preventing him from joining a rival Victorian club.

But he insisted West Coast officials had thrown their arms around him.

"(General manager of football) Craig Vozzo and Simmo (Adam Simpson) have been very supportive,"he said.

Despite the public announcement of his impending exit,the 2012 Brownlow medallist maintains he's focused on leaving on a high with the Eagles in flag contention.

"We are sitting second on the ladder and these opportunities ... don't come along too often,"Mitchell said.

"So my commitment right now is 100 per cent with the Eagles and making sure I can get our midfield to perform at a level that will give us every chance to win."

It is believed several Melbourne clubs are interested in securing Mitchell's services.

Earlier this week Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson admitted that he had contacted his former charge about joining him in the coaches'box but had been told"now's not the right time to talk".

AAP

West Coast Eagles