Porter informed Magpie officials last week that he wanted to reignite his VFL career.

The 27-year-old has travelled from Melbourne to play for Wangaratta since 2017.

Porter cited the travel factor as the major reason behind his decision to join Werribee next year.

"The only reason I'm leaving Wangaratta is because of the travel," Porter said.

"It's bittersweet for me because it's hard to leave a successful side where I have got so many fond memories.

"I have no doubt Wangaratta will be a flag contender again next year and have already picked-up some handy additions.

"With myself leaving, it opens up opportunities and there is some young talent coming through the ranks.

"Wangaratta is in a strong position and my departure won't have a huge impact on their flag prospects."

Porter ruled out nominating Wangaratta as his second club when free of VFL commitments due to the travel.

While most clubs would struggle to fill the void left by the departure of Porter, the Magpies have a plethora of tall marking options.

Former AFL players Ben Reid and Michael Newton remain among the premier forwards in the competition.

Porter played in a flag in his first season at Norm Minns Oval after the Magpies stunned red-hot favourites Albury in the decider.

He also played in two losing grand finals against Albury in 2018 and Lavington the following season.

Ironically, Shaun Mannagh will be one of Porter's new team-mates at Werribee.

Mannagh tormented the Pies on the big stage with a best-on-ground display in the 2019 decider before joining Werribee the following season.

"Shaun has already texted me to welcome me to the club," Porter said.

"I jokingly texted back that I wished he had gone to Werribee a year earlier and there is a fair chance I would have won two flags with Wangaratta.

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"But Shaun is a great player and finished runner-up in Werribee's best and fairest this year which is an awesome effort.

"It will be good to play alongside him instead of against him, that's for sure."

Reid has been able to keep the Magpies' list intact apart from Ben Speight who is weighing up his future.

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