Fremantle have secured one of the biggest fish in the 2022 trade period, landing wantaway Demons ruck-forward Luke Jackson in a deal with Melbourne.
Jackson flagged his desire to depart Melbourne in favour of a return to his home state of Western Australia this off-season, with Fremantle seen as the likely landing spot for the 21-year-old for some time.
The Dockers, who are understood to have tabled a long-term lucrative deal to Jackson, have secured their top target, with the Cockburn club parting with Pick 13, their future first-round and second-round selections to land the 2021 Rising Star winner.
Trade paperwork lodged.
Melbourne trade Luke Jackson, its Round Three Selection (44), and its Round Four Selection (67) to Fremantle for its Round One Selection (13), Future First Round Selection and Future Second Round Selection.— AFL House (@AFL_House) October 10, 2022
Despite earlier reports, Demons forward Toby Bedford has not been included in the trade, with his move to GWS finalised separately.
The Demons did gain Pick 44 from the Giants in that trade, with that selection joining Pick 67 and Jackson in heading to Fremantle.
Jackson joins the Dockers as a premiership player from Melbourne, having played a pivotal part in the Demons' successful 2021 campaign.
His departure is a crucial blow to Simon Goodwin's squad, who are set to secure Collingwood ruckman Brodie Grundy before Wednesday's trade deadline.
One of the earlier selections Melbourne have secured in their trade with the Dockers could be used in their deal to land Grundy.
Jackson will join Sean Darcy as the Dockers' new one-two ruck punch, with the former's arrival potentially spelling the end for Rory Lobb and/or Lloyd Meek's tenure at Fremantle.
Lobb is hoping for a move to the Western Bulldogs, while Meek, who is also contracted, is hopeful of landing at Hawthorn.
