For the second consecutive year, Essendon gun Zach Merrett is understood to be heading for the door whilst under contract, but the Bombers may have eased on their desire to keep him in the red and black.
Hawthorn came extremely hard last year, offering three first-round picks - admittedly in the mid-to-late teens - for Merrett, which was swiftly denied. With his value arguably plummeting in comparison, hindsight would suggest Essendon would've benefitted from a move last year.
But looking ahead, which clubs would be in the market for the 30-year-old?
Hawthorn has maintained its interest in Merrett since last year, while Geelong has entered the conversation in a shock twist.
But could Melbourne or Adelaide throw the ball at the stumps? Both clubs are in need of midfield power, and Merrett provides that in spades.
The intriguing element of this trade watch is Merrett's contract, and which sides can facilitate a deal that would satisfy Essendon.
Geelong
There's no shock the Cats are on this list, as they are on every list. But as Wayne Gretzky said, 'you miss 100 percent of the shots you don't take'.
The Cats quickly emerged as a potential destination for Merrett at season's end, and coach Chris Scott has been reported to have reached out to the veteran Bomber in recent weeks.
And it makes sense. Geelong's midfield has struggled, and the acquisition of James Worpel and Bailey Smith in recent years has aided the problem, but not entirely fixed it. Would Merrett?
Yes. The smooth-moving midfielder is a trusty accumulator, and would allow running partners Smith and Max Holmes more freedom.
It would also keep Geelong in the 'win-now' column as well as plan for life after Patrick Dangerfield, who looms as a 2027 participant, won't be around for much longer.
The Cats have a first and second round selection which is tipped to satisfy Essendon, but the Bombers could eye some young talent.
Jack Bowes has quickly become a player of interest after struggling to cement his spot in Chris Scott's side, and could help broker a trade, although he is out of contract at season's end. If he's not offered a new deal, he could be added to the Bombers as a delisted free agent.
Young midfield options Mitch Knevitt, Jhye Clark and George Stevens have been on AFL lists for multiple years, and have been starved of opportunities but deserve to be in the top flight.
