Richards has spoken to Richmond, Geelong and the Northern Blues and is set to start pre-season training with the Blues in coming weeks.

The midfielder won't be lost to Wangaratta altogether as he will nominate the Magpies as his second club.

Coach Luke Morgan said the timing was right for Richards to test himself at a higher level.

"He's a ripper," Morgan said.

"Joe's keen to have a crack at it and I think it's the right time in his career.

"In terms of his development, it's a good move and we wish him all the best.

"He will be with us when he's not playing VFL footy but hopefully that's not too often as he's obviously a very good player."

Richards will move to Melbourne permanently and plans to transfer his university studies as a teacher.

Morgan, who is a former Northern Bullants player, said Richards had shown his class in the Ovens and Murray during the past two seasons and was ready to step up to VFL ranks.

"He's been a fantastic player for us and I think he will do well," Morgan said.

"He works really hard on his game and wants to improve."

Richards burst onto the scene when he kicked 11 goals on debut against Corowa-Rutherglen in 2016 and played a key role in the club's 2017 flag.

Wangaratta will start next season as one of the teams to beat with the Magpies so far keeping their losses to a minimum with only Ben Douthie (retired) and Jamie Anderson (overseas) departing.