The AFL's free agency and trade space never sleeps, and a host of high-end defenders could have a massive say in this year's movement period.

As we know, clubs scout attempt to lure star players for long periods of time, and more often than not, that interest comes to light.

St Kilda poses as a massive player later in the year, having many interests around the league, but also fielding rival attention for Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera.

"He is seriously considering a return to South Australia," AFL Media's Cal Twomey said on Gettable.

"He's thinking strongly about the options there... Adelaide and Port Adelaide. Adelaide has that long-term deal in front of him. Port Adelaide has significant interest as well, where he has close friendships with Jase Burgoyne and Jason Horne-Francis.

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 16: Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera of the Saints is tackled by Ben Keays of the Crows during the 2025 AFL Round 01 match between the Adelaide Crows and the St Kilda Saints at Adelaide Oval on March 16, 2025 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by James Elsby/AFL Photos via Getty Images)
ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 16: Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera of the Saints is tackled by Ben Keays of the Crows during the 2025 AFL Round 01 match between the Adelaide Crows and the St Kilda Saints at Adelaide Oval on March 16, 2025 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by James Elsby/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

"St Kilda has tabled significant offers too. He's in a no-lose position."

The Saints could mitigate the potential loss of Wanganeen-Milera if he exits Victoria, with the Moorabbin club holding strong interest in Port Adelaide defender Miles Bergman and GWS tall Leek Aleer.

"Miles Bergman, speaking of big offers, will get them from all Victorian clubs," Twomey added.

"He won't be leaving for money. Port have been aggressive in keeping him, and it won't be a money factor if he goes.

"The Western Bulldogs will be in it. Of course, St Kilda will be."

Twomey also believes that Aleer will depart from the Giants, despite a two-year deal in front of him to remain in New South Wales.

Brisbane premiership defender Brandon Starcevich also poses as an interesting case, given he enters free agency at season's end.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 15: Brandon Starcevich of the Lions is helped by medical staff during the round one AFL match between Sydney Swans and Brisbane Lions at Sydney Cricket Ground, on March 15, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 15: Brandon Starcevich of the Lions is helped by medical staff during the round one AFL match between Sydney Swans and Brisbane Lions at Sydney Cricket Ground, on March 15, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Darrian Traynor/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

Starcevich is currently dealing with persistent concussion symptoms from his most recent knock in Round 1, which has followed two more incidents in the last 12 months.

Western Australian clubs will look into the local product, while Essendon is watching his health situation closely. Starcevich has rejoined training at the Lions but no timeline on his return has been confirmed.

"Brandon Starcevich... he hasn't been in any rush to get to his contract call," Twomey added.

"He's been open to listening to clubs in Victoria, as well as WA. One of those is Essendon. I understand the Bombers have interest.

"He'll be among the players they are looking at."

Collingwood's Brayden Maynard also sits in a peculiar spot at the AIA Centre, and is reportedly considering a monster deal from North Melbourne.

The Pies are paying large amounts to fellow defenders Dan Houston and Harry Perryman, while a potential salary cap squeeze could see the Kangaroos' deal much more alluring.

"I still think there's a chance he stays at Collingwood," Twomey said.

"It's not all over there. But the money would have to be strong as well, and how strong can they offer."

Off-contract Collingwood backman gives hint on future
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - MAY 03: Brayden Maynard of the Magpies celebrates a goal with teammate Jamie Elliott during the 2024 AFL Round 08 match between the Carlton Blues and the Collingwood Magpies at The Melbourne Cricket Ground on May 03, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

The AFL Free Agency period commences on Friday, October 3 and will run until Friday, October 10.

The AFL Trade Period will commence on Monday, October 6 and will run until Wednesday, October 15.