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.
3. Wade Derksen to Collingwood
The GWS swingman was hoping to secure a move to Melbourne last off-season, with the Giants instead deciding to hold the 197cm Queanbeyan product to his contract.
Dersken has continued to shine at VFL level for the Giants at both ends of the field over the past several seasons; however is yet to break into the club's senior side for a debut given their star stocks in their key position ranks.
This year, again playing as an intercepting defender, Derksen has polled 17 coaches' votes, polling in four of his eight games this year while averaging 20.8 disposals, 8.8 marks and 4.5 rebound 50s.
The Demons could come calling again this year, but the Magpies might be a club that would make a move for Derksen if they could in the middle of their flag push.
Some further support down back for Darcy Moore, Jeremy Howe and Billy Frampton could go a long way for both Collingwood and Derksen, who has plenty of football left at the age of 23.
