St Kilda hasn't officially said it, but they are in a rebuilding phase, and have been for the past two years.

The Saints have welcomed a host of young talent in recent seasons, headed by Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera, and now believe established stars are the way forward.

The interest in a Carlton ruckman has been well documented, while it is widely believed that a Giants defender is bound for Moorabbin.

But who else would improve St Kilda's list going forward?

Here are five trade and free agency targets for St Kilda to consider this year.

2Leek Aleer

GWS defender Leek Aleer inks new contract extension
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - AUGUST 13: Leek Aleer of the Giants in action during the 2022 AFL Round 22 match between the Western Bulldogs and the GWS Giants at Marvel Stadium on August 13, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

The Giants defender is all but certain to join St Kilda at season's end in search of more senior opportunities in the AFL.

Aleer has played 20 games since being drafted with Pick 15 in the 2021 National Draft, forced to bide his time against stars Sam Taylor, Jack Buckley, Connor Idun and Harry Himmelberg.

The 21-year-old has shown glimpses of his potential in his limited senior outings, which is why the Saints have entered the conversation.

Aleer denied a move to a rival club two years ago when he penned a small extension to remain at GWS, but after kicking the can down the road, it appears time for a change.

It's understood that St Kilda's offer is far more significant than GWS', in terms of length (two years vs four) and finances ($800,000 vs $3 million).

Aleer will benefit from working alongside veteran Callum Wilkie and Dougal Howard, but also be among the elite young talent at the club, driving the next generation.

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