Hawthorn father-son forward Calsher Dear is quickly becoming a wanted man, which is no surprise given the mooted arrival of Gold Coast free agent Ben King.
After bursting onto the AFL scene, playing 17 games in his maiden campaign at the top flight, Dear has struggled to regain that impressive form, playing 14 games in the past two years.
Injury has curtailed his 2026 year, but the return of Mitch Lewis - who recently re-signed - and veteran Jack Gunston - who is also locked in for 2027 - has left the father-son youngster on the outer.
It is understood the Hawks have tabled a two-year deal to retain Dear, but there are five clubs looking to make the most of the opportunity, according to a report on The Agenda Setters.
Carlton
The Blues will continue to look at ways to improve their list, which was foreshadowed by football boss Chris Davies in May.
Carlton parted ways with Charlie Curnow, Jack Silvagni and Tom De Koning last year, and have money to splurge on bringing in established talent, which worked wonders for them in November when welcoming Ben Ainsworth, Will Hayward and Ollie Florent.
Brodie Kemp and Mitch McGovern have provided options up forward, and to the surprise of Blues fans, have actually performed at a high level, especially under Josh Fraser as the club recorded nine wins from 11 starts.
The pair lead the club's goal-kicking with 31 and 30 majors, while Harry McKay, who has dabbled in the second-ruck role, has kicked 25.
McGovern doesn't have a deal for next year, but has warranted a new one. But Dear, given his age and athleticism, is untapped potential, and would improve Carlton's list.
