Collingwood have reportedly set their focus on a potential move for North Melbourne captain Jy Simpkin this trade period.
The Magpies have been on the hunt for an experienced ball winner to complement their current engine room ensemble, with Melbourne's Clayton Oliver a recent target.
"We know we have spots... to reshape our midfield. We do have an ageing midfield, we understand that. Clay's still got a few good years left in them as well," Pies list lead Justin Leppitsch said of the club's pursuit of Oliver on Monday.
"On the surface, it seems like a really good thing for us to pursue."
Oliver has since elected GWS as his preferred destination, forcing Collingwood to look elsewhere.
The next man in the Magpies' sights is Jy Simpkin, per The Age, which reports a first-round pick may be required to appease the Kangaroos, given Simpkin is contracted until the end of 2029.
The Roos skipper has emerged as a trade option this off-season due to frustration with his role under Alastair Clarkson this year, with the two-time best and fairest featuring on the wing and in attack at times this year due to the club's long list of star midfield talent.
George Wardlaw, Luke Davies-Uniacke, Harry Sheezel and Tom Powell are viewed ahead of Simpkin in the selection pecking order, while Colby McKercher and Finn O'Sullivan are long-term midfield options.
Collingwood does not possess a first-round selection for 2025, however can pass on their opening picks for the 2026 and 2027 drafts.
Simpkin, who re-signed with North Melbourne on a five-year deal close to six months after his second straight Syd Barker Medal win, could be on a wage that makes a move to the Magpies difficult.
The Roos could look to pay a portion of his deal if he were to leave the club, however that would increase the asking price in trade negotiations.
The 2025 Trade Period deadline is set for 7:30pm (AEDT) on Wednesday.
