Hawthorn midfielder James Worpel has reportedly told the club of his intent to join the Geelong Cats as a free agent when the window opens on October 3.

According to AFL Media's Riley Beveridge, Worpel told the Hawks on Thursday his ambition on joining the Cats for 2026 and beyond.

It was reported in early August that Geelong had ramped up its chase for Worpel, offering him a four-year contract.

However, as a restricted free agent, Hawthorn have the ability to match Geelong's contract offer for Worpel, potentially forcing the long-time rivals into trade discussions should the Cats wish to acquire his services this off-season.

Worpel's potential move sees him head down the highway to return to the area of Victoria of which he grew up in, having connections to many Cats players, most notably Gryan Miers, and is a clear fit within Geelong's current midfield group.

Geelong's midfield, while largely elite in 2025, was clearly underdone in regard to its inside midfield bulls, as was exposed on Grand Final day against Brisbane.

The outside running guns Bailey Smith and Max Holmes were consistently bullied off the ball in crucial moments and Patrick Dangerfield is far too old to be relied upon consistently, as elite as he has been in moments this past season, such as the preliminary final against Hawthorn.

Bringing in Worpel presents a perfect opportunity to bridge that gap and, presuming Dangerfield elects to play another season, allows the captain to remain as the threatening forward 50 presence he has become this season.

Worpel averaged just shy of 10 contested possessions and three stoppage clearances per game this season, but has reached the heights of over four stoppage clearances per game in years past, highlighting his capability of being the inside bull Geelong currently lacks.

More to come...

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