Following confirmation of his departure from CDR Yamaha Monster Energy, Dylan Long has revealed he’s reached a verbal agreement for his 2019 plans, with an official contract still to be signed.

The popular Victorian, who boasts an Instagram following of 70,000 fans, couldn’t disclose who he’s in discussions with at this stage, although the number seven has been linked to Empire Motorsports aboard Kawasaki machinery.

Finishing fifth in both the Pirelli MX Nationals and Australia Supercross Championship in 2018, Long is hopeful his deal will be finalised in the coming weeks which will allow an early start on his preparations for the new year.

“I’ve said yes, but the contract isn’t signed yet,” Long revealed to MotoOnline.com.au. “There are things lined up for next year – I just can’t say yet as the team is still finalising stuff as well.

“We only just finished supercross, so it’s been good to have a bit of time off and relax. Hopefully in the next week or so things will be sorted – I should be able to get a bike by then and start riding again. I usually have a bike at home – the brand I’m riding, I usually buy a bike and keep it at home so I always have a bike to ride.”

Long has previously been equipped with Kawasaki’s premier class contender, landing a guest ride with the now defunct NPS Monster Energy Kawasaki outfit in 2015.

It was made offical at the weekend that Kirk Gibbs will join CDR Yamaha Monster Energy, while the second seat is tipped to be fulfilled by Luke Clout.