Essendon, as they should, have continued to express their firm stance that captain Zach Merrett won't be traded, after the Bombers' star was linked to a shock move to Hawthorn.
A meeting with Hawks key figures quickly transformed murmurings surrounding Merrett's future into more agony for Dons fans, with their five-time (and likely soon-to-be six) best and fairest winner understood to be somewhat frustrated at Tullamarine.
Merrett's contract with Essendon won't expire until the end of 2027, meaning the Bombers - despite what Merrett wants, and what the Hawks can do to try and appease their rival - can force their leader to remain in the red and black.
That scenario undoubtedly creates a fascinating summer for all parties, with Merrett's role as captain likely coming into question despite him being their list as their best leader and player for 2026.
The Bombers can deny the thought of Merrett moving clubs this off-season, but that mightn't stop Hawthorn's attempts to lure the 29-year-old to the brown and gold.
So, in any world where Essendon's head could be turned, what trade packages could potentially satisfy a deal that sees Merrett head to Waverley?
We look at four offers that could interest Essendon...
3. The picks only package
Hawthorn trade: Picks 8, 26 and 2026 first-round selection
Essendon trade: Zach Merrett, 2026 third-round selection
The most likely package for Merrett would only involve selections coming from the Hawks.
Pick 8, tied to Carlton and acquired from West Coast last year, would be the main chip, with another first-round pick still needed. If we see another deep finals run by the Hawks next year, that selection will be one of the last in the opening round.
And that's all before we take into consideration those two picks ballooning out to later spots in the draft after bids and compensation selections are added.
Merrett is probably worth two mid-range first-round picks, meaning an upgrade of later selections might still be needed.
