The talks between Essendon and Hawthorn regarding a trade for Bombers star Zach Merrett have begun in a positive manner.
However, Essendon list manager Matt Rosa has said there are other clubs interested in securing Merrett if another deadlock occurs between the Hawks and Bombers.
"I think discussions have been respectful and they will continue to be," Rosa said on the first day of the trade period.
"(Merrett's) aware how much we value him. But we've also said that we're open to talk and we'll continue having discussions. There's a bit to play out, but he knows how much we want him at the footy club.
"There are clubs interested, not just the one club, but yeah, we'll continue talking to Zach and continue to talk to all clubs."
Hawthorn key defender Noah Mraz, 20, has been floated as part of a possible deal to help secure Merrett. But the Hawks are reported to be steadfast in not trading the talented young defender.
Rosa confirmed that the Bombers are interested in Mraz's services.
"We like (Mraz) as a player," he said.
"We think he's an emerging player, and he's on the rise. So, yeah, the interest is real in him. We do like him as a player."
Key defender Jordan Ridley is another star Bomber that is wanting a change of clubs this off-season.
The 27-year-old is eager to get to Geelong, with North Melbourne waiting in the wings if the deal falls through.
Rosa said, like Merrett, the Bombers rate Ridley highly and will want to be fairly compensated given he has three years remaining on a contract.
"We've had some discussions with Geelong. They've got an interest in Jordan Ridley and a strong interest from another club in him as well," he said.
"So, again, we'll just have those discussions. We'll keep an open mind, but for Jordan, he's contracted for another three years.
"He's clearly one of our most highly talented players. So, again, the value for him, and he knows that we want to keep him at the club. But, yeah, we'll continue to have open discussions."
Rosa said that veteran midfielder Darcy Parish wanted to stay at Tullamarine despite the fact he wouldn't be guaranteed midfield minutes in 2027.
Essendon has said that the 29-year-old All-Australian is keen to stay at the club and fight for his place under new coach Mark McVeigh.
