Discussions surrounding a Mid-Season Trade Period for the AFL have continued into 2025, with the conclusion of this week's draft and the push from certain coaches adding to the narrative.
The AFL has continued to assess the pros and cons of a player exchange window for the future, with the competition to take a step closer as clubs are allowed to trade 2026 draft picks to get into the Mid-Season draft next year.
Clubs in 2025 would have loved the chance to aid their list instantly as they either look to strengthen their prospects for the premiership or continue to rebuild their list with young talent.
With this in mind, we've looked at a handful of AFL players who could benefit from a mid-year change and the potential landing spots that might be of interest.
Here are five hypothetical trade deals that could've happened if a Mid-Season Trade Period existed in 2025.
1. Elijah Tsatas to West Coast
The former Pick 5 selection has struggled to cement his place in Brad Scott's midfield, given the long list of Bombers midfielders already holding down roles in the engine room.
Tsatas has managed just the four games this year, with his most recent appearance coming on Thursday night against the Lions, where he was subbed into the contest midway through the final term.
Prior to that performance, Tsatas had shown glimpses in his trio of games for 2025, averaging 19.67 disposals, 7.00 clearances and 10.33 contested possessions per game.
The incoming return of Darcy Parish could push Tsatas even further back in the pecking order, with the 20-year-old a likely starter elsewhere.
The Eagles have been searching for answers to their midfield issues this year, using 13 different ball winners at centre bounce so far this season, with Tsatas potentially standing out among the young crop of West Coast onballers.
West Coast could offer up a draft selection like a future second-round pick to satisfy the Bombers.
