Essendon free agent Jayden Laverde has reportedly undergone a medical with GWS.
Laverde is a free agent this off-season and does not fall under the restricted banner, meaning he can join the club of his choosing, should there be external interest.
Despite playing 35 games since the start of last year, Laverde isn't viewed as a best 23 player at the Bombers, with the former first-round pick often holding a role in the absence of injury-hit trio Zach Reid, Jordan Ridley or Ben McKay.
The 29-year-old has tallied 145 games in the red and black since being drafted in 2014, starting his career as a forward before being swung to the backline.
His situation at Essendon has led Laverde to weigh up his options on the open market, with GWS showing a mutual interest in his services this off-season.
According to the Herald Sun, Laverde has completed a medical with the Giants ahead of an expected move to New South Wales.
The publication's report suggests Laverde will likely take up a rookie list spot with GWS, who will lose key defender Leek Aleer following his trade request earlier this month.
Laverde's move north would see him reunite with close friend and ex-Bomber Jake Stringer 12 months on from the latter's defection to GWS, while another close friend, Essendon captain Zach Merrett, is looking to leave the Bombers for Hawthorn.
The 2025 free agency period opens on Friday, October 3, while Laverde could also join the Giants via the pre-season Supplemental Selection Period closer to summer.
Essendon are yet to confirm Laverde's intentions of departing, while Alwyn Davey Jnr (delisted), Jye Menzie (delisted) and Dylan Shiel (delisted) have already left the club.
