Geelong midfielder Jack Bowes is understood to have lodged a trade request to join Essendon this off-season.
Bowes struggled for AFL minutes in 2026, playing just nine games after a total of 74 appearances in his first three seasons with the Cats.
The 28-year-old moved from Gold Coast to Kardinia Park at the end of 2022 after 83 games, but has fallen short in cementing his spot in Chris Scott's side.
With Essendon in need of experienced midfield assets, the Bombers have expressed interest in the Cairns product.
That interest has since led to Bowes requesting a move to Tullamarine, per AFL Media, simultaneously turning down the advances of North Melbourne and Adelaide.
Bowes' request comes as Essendon defender Jordan Ridley weighs up his options, with Geelong seen as a leading suitor for his signature.
As well as Ridley's anticipated exit, former captain Zach Merrett is tipped to join Hawthorn during this year's trade period, which will commence on Monday.
The Bombers currently hold Picks 1, 19 and 55 for the 2026 AFL Draft.
Geelong, meanwhile, will need to bolster its draft hand - currently Picks 14, 32, 50 and 68 - as they attempt to secure Ridley and St Kilda ruckman Rowan Marshall.
The Cats have also been tied to Sydney's Nick Blakey and Hawthorn's Calsher Dear, and will sign GWS veteran Toby Greene as a free agent. The free agency signing window gets underway on Friday.
