Essendon has tabled a four-year deal worth more than $3 million to Hawthorn youngster Noah Mraz as the pair of rivals prepare to work together on Zach Merrett's mooted move.
Mraz has loomed as a gettable option for the Bombers and Gold Coast, with there being a major squeeze on the Hawks' salary cap as Merrett and Ben King plan their arrivals.
The Bombers are keen to acquire defensive depth and have targeted the four-gamer as part of a Merrett deal, according to AFL Media.
Mraz is understood to swiftly deny advances made by Gold Coast, and is keen to see out his contract, which expires at the end of 2028.
Adding to the intrigue regarding trade negotiations is the deal needed for Merrett to join the Hawks, with the star on-baller still under contract for another 12 months.
It's understood the six-time Crichton Medallist has a four-year contract tabled by Hawthorn worth $4 million.
Last year, the Hawks put forward multiple first-round selections as well as Henry Hustwaite, but the Bombers held Merrett to his contract.
Revisiting a move in 2026 has lowered Merrett's worth from a draft pick perspective, especially given Hawthorn's premiership hopes in the next few years as well as Tasmania's looming influence on the draft.
The Bombers already hold Picks 1, 19 and 55, but could gain another end-of-first-round selection if they bid on either Dougie Cochrane or Cody Walker with their top pick.
