SEN's Andy Maher believes the Sydney Swans are contemplating a move for Eagles ruckman Tom Hickey in a bid to retain Aliir Aliir.
Port Adelaide football boss Chris Davies confirmed the club's interest in Aliir, who they are reportedly looking to recruit to play his preferred key defender position.
Aliir has been forced into a pinch hitting ruck role at the Swans due to injuries and their lack of depth in the position. Therefore, playing his customary defensive role could tempt him to move to Alberton.
The 26-year old is contracted until the end of next season, meaning he would need to be acquired via trade.
Speaking on SEN drive show Bob and Andy, Maher said Aliir wants to stay at the Swans and that the club have "zeroed in" on Hickey to alleviate any concerns over his role in 2021.
“It’s come to my attention that Sydney don’t want Aliir to go and Aliir doesn’t want to leave Sydney. But there was an offer made to him by Port Adelaide and word had got out that he wants to play key defensive position, preferably centre half-back,” Maher said on SEN. “That’s where he seems himself developing into the best player.
“Sydney were forced to use him in the ruck this year with their ruck stocks low and Port Adelaide were luring him as a key defender. Sydney went: ‘OK, we’ll think about it if Peter Ladhams is on the table.’ Port Adelaide said: ‘No, we’re not doing a straight swap for Ladhams.’
“Such is the affection between Sydney and Aliir that rather than fear losing him because he believes he’s being played out of position, Sydney has zeroed in on a talented ruckman, who would be at his fourth club if he was to make the journey from the west over to the east and fill the breach that needs to be breached at Sydney.
“Tom Hickey is the name that I believe has been mentioned. Just keep an eye on that little space and see how that plays out.”
Hickey, 29, has played 102 games for Gold Coast, St Kilda and West Coast over 10 seasons after making his debut in 2011.
He made just three senior appearances in 2020.
