Lachie Neale

“It’s all news to us”: Lions speak on Neale bombshell

“As far as we’re concerned, he’s got two years of his contract left and that’s where it is at.”

Published by
Mitch Keating

The Brisbane Lions have spoken on the recent bombshell report linking Brownlow medallist Lachie Neale to a move back to Western Australia.

The 7 News report suggested Neale and his partner are looking to return to WA, with a trade request to Fremantle a likely outcome.

In the wake of the Lions' finals exit following their one-point loss to the Western Bulldogs on Saturday, the news stunned AFL circles.

AFL trade news: Bulldog expected to find new home

Neale remains to have a further two years left on his current contract with the Lions, prompting some disappointment from the Brisbane faithful to see their star midfielder request a trade after just three seasons in Queensland.

However, when asked about the matter on Radio TAB, Lions football manager Danny Daly revealed the club are yet to confirm the news and speak with Neale directly.

"I think the club will come out and make a statement sometime this afternoon once we've had a chance to speak to Lachie and work through it," Daly said.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 13: Lachie Neale of the Lions takes a mark during the round 2 AFL match between the Brisbane Lions and the Fremantle Dockers at The Gabba on June 13, 2020 in Brisbane, Australia. (Photo by Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images)

"It's all news to us. As far as we're concerned, he's got two years of his contract left and that's where it is at."

Lions powerbrokers are understood to have held an emergency meeting following the shock report, with an official club statement imminent.

Should Neale formally request a return to the Dockers, the Perth club will likely need to hand over a substantial trade package to Brisbane in order to reunite with the ball-magnet.

AFL trade news recap: Pies’ hands tied, Dog to depart

Fremantle, who were handed picks 6, 19 and 55 when they bid farewell to Neale in 2018, are set to see gun onballer Adam Cerra depart the purple at this year's trade period.

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - MAY 27: Adam Cerra of the Dockers gets his kick away under pressure during the round 10 AFL match between the Fremantle Dockers and the North Melbourne Kangaroos at Optus Stadium on May 27, 2018 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

The 21-year-old is likely to warrant more than a first-round selection, potentially handing the Dockers some trade capital for their bid to land Neale's services.

Cerra has formally requested a trade to Victoria, with Carlton among the clubs most keen on the midfielder.

Published by
Mitch Keating