AFL free agent Todd Goldstein will join Essendon after leaving North Melbourne

Experienced ruckman Todd Goldstein will continue his career at Essendon.

7NEWS can confirm the 35-year-old has made his decision to re-team with former North Melbourne coach Brad Scott at the Bombers.

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Goldstein played 315 games during his outstanding career with the Kangaroos, but if he remained at Arden Street next year his senior playing options would be significantly limited, with Tristan Xerri, who played the final eight games of the season, being the first-choice ruckman .

Goldstein also met with Collingwood last week but decided against a move to the incumbent premiership in favor of the Bombers.

He will compete with Sam Draper and Nick Bryan for a place in the team, although Scott prefers to play two rucks and Draper faces an interrupted pre-season due to groin surgery last week.

Goldstein is the second player Scott has poached from the Roos, with fellow free agent Ben McKay also moving to Essendon.

“It was a really tough decision,” Goldstein said two weeks ago when he announced his departure from North Melbourne.

“I have spoken to my manager and my family about what will be best for us in the future… and I think that is to look for other opportunities elsewhere.

“It’s probably time for the club to make a clean break and give Tristan the opportunity to shine in the number one ruck role.”

The cashed-up Bombers have also been linked with free agent Jade Gresham from St Kilda, making for a busy off-season.

There’s more to come