Hawthorn's Changkuoth Jiath has agreed to join Melbourne on a three-year deal in exchange for Pick 42 in the 2025 National Draft.
Jiath holds a contract until the end of 2027, but is understood to have a mutual understanding with the Hawks to explore his options at a rival club.
According to AFL Media's, Josh Gabelich, the Demons have put forward their Charlie Spargo compensation (Pick 42) to get the deal done.
Melbourne has offered Hawthorn pick No. 42 for Changkuoth Jiath. The 26-year-old is expected to move to the Demons on a three-year deal by the deadline @AFLcomau @traderadio
— Josh Gabelich (@JoshGabelich) October 15, 2025
If Melbourne were to broker a deal before the deadline, Jiath would be seen as a like-for-like replacement for Judd McVee, who was traded to Fremantle.
Last month, the Dockers and Carlton were also reported to hold interest in the Hawk, although nothing has eventuated.
The speedy Hawk has played 76 games since he was drafted as a category B rookie ahead of the 2018 season.
Despite a career-high 20 matches in 2025, Jiath spent six of those as the starting substitute, while he has played out of position throughout the year.
The likes of Jack Scrimshaw, Josh Weddle, James Sicily, Blake Hardwick, Karl Amon and Jarman Impey all hold supremacy over the Xavier College product, while on the wing, Massimo D'Ambrosio, Weddle, and Harry Morrison have locked down those positions.
As for the Demons, they are looking to part ways with premiership duo Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver.
Spargo has already departed for North Melbourne, while McVee joined the Dockers.
Brody Mihocek and Max Heath were traded to Melbourne. The Demons have also come late for St Kilda's Jack Steele.
The 2025 trade period closes on Wednesday, October 15 at 7:30pm (AEDT).
