Fomer AFL great Brendon Goddard has thrown his two cents into the Stephen Coniglio free agency conversation, stating that if the Giants star's priority is winning games then Hawthorn shouldn't be considered.
For what has been a sub-par season achievement wise for the Hawks, it's just about time to start shopping around - but convincing a player of Coniglio's caliber will be difficult.
Joining a renowned coach like Alistair Clarkson would be beneficial, but Goddard believes their are too many "red flags" with Hawthorn's current list.
Last trade period, the Hawks were keen to recruit the classy on-baller and were probably ahead in the race, their performance has declined since while the Giants have remained a top-eight lock.
"While joining the Hawks would give him the opportunity to play under one of the game’s greatest ever coaches in Alastair Clarkson, I’m seeing massive red flags when it comes to the club’s list," Goddard wrote in the Herald Sun.
"It's time for the decision makers at Hawthorn to answer some tough questions. Most importantly, what direction they see the club going and whether they are on the same page as Clarkson."
This season, Coniglio has averaged 28 disposals, 4.5 marks and 3.7 tackles per game, while booting 15 goals from 13 appearances.
The Giants currently sit a game behind Magpies and Eagles in the top four, while the Hawks have dropped to 15th on the ladder with a rather challenging run home ahead of them.
A team that was close to signing Coniglio's ex-teammate Dylan Shiel was Carlton, and with an elite midfielder to pair with Patrick Cripps the only glaring piece to fill, the Blues will look to throw the kitchen sink at the Giants midfielder.
Reports came last week that the Blues have offered the star a whopping $1.4 million per season. But not only is there a 'go-home factor' for Coniglio to move to a WA club, but his current side are doing everything in their power to show why he will benefit from remaining a one-club player.
