The AFL submitted the findings from its 16-month long investigation to ASADA earlier this week regarding an incident in May 2015.

It was alleged No.1 Draft pick Whitfield stayed at the home of former Giants welfare manager Craig Lambert on the advice of then football manager Graeme Allan out of fear of failing an illicit drugs test.

Allan waited until July last year to inform the club with the Giants immediately contacting the AFL which triggered the investigation.

ASADA has determined the AFL is free to hand down any sanctions it sees fit.

“The AFL Integrity Department met with ASADA earlier this week to provide a brief on an investigation regarding a current-listed player of the GWS Giants Football club and two former staff members of the club, who remain employed within the AFL industry,” the AFL said in a statement released Friday evening.

“ASADA is satisfied that the next steps remain with the AFL.

“The AFL will seek further legal opinion before consulting again with ASADA.”

Whitfield is expected to play in next week’s final against the Swans.