The list managers of both Hawthorn and Essendon have reaffirmed their approach to Bombers captain Zach Merrett, but a potential trade between both clubs during the trade period seems unlikely, with Merrett yet to formally request a trade.
Both list bosses noted that no dialogue has occurred between the fierce in-state rivals, with the Bombers remaining adamant they would not entertain a deal whatsoever for their club captain.
It's a stance that Essendon GM of List and Recruiting, Matt Rosa, confirmed would remain unwavering should Hawthorn approach Essendon with an offer, or even in the circumstances where Merrett formally requests an exit from Tullamarine.
"If he does [request a trade], nothing will change from our end, and Zach's fully aware of that," Rosa said.
"There's been no dialogue with Hawthorn, and if they do make contact, we'll be very clear that nothing will change.
"Merrett is a contracted player. He's at the age where we still feel like he's got plenty of football left to play. He plays such an important role throughout our football club.
"With our young players coming through, we feel like we've got a really, really strong young and emerging list.
"We also believe in our core group. Unfortunately, we just haven't been able to get enough of those core players out on the park this year but we're excited about when that happens and what's coming through from underneath.
"Zach is such an important player to us and and that won't change from our end."
Rosa admitted that the Bombers were unaware of Merrett's interest in a potential departure from the Hangar until after his reported meeting with Hawks senior coach Sam Mitchell was unveiled, but believes the ensuing conversations with Merrett have been productive.
"We knew after the fact that he'd met with Hawthorn," Rosa said.
"It's not ideal when any players are meeting with other clubs, but we're also aware that we're meeting with players from other clubs.
"We're very clear that Zach will be starting pre-season with us, and his teammates will be fine with that.
"He's fully understanding that we've got to make decisions that are best for the football club, and that's what we'll do. We'll continue to make decisions that are best and have the club's best issues at heart.
"He'll continue having discussions with the right people, but it's good that it's in a respectful place. Those conversations are on ongoing and open, and they'll continue to happen."
Hawthorn National Recruiting & List Manager, Mark McKenzie, made it clear on Monday that the Hawks remain interested in bringing Merrett to W,averley but confirmed the lack of progress between the two clubs.
"There hasn't been any movement. It's day one of trade period," McKenzie said.
"We've got some interest there, definitely. We've shown from our football club there is the interest to get better and we'll do that through any scenarios whether that's trade, free agency or the draft.
"We're always in the market for high-quality players so that'll be not much different... but [Merrett] hasn't requested a trade and that's where it sits."
