Melbourne has reportedly narrowed down its search for a senior coach to a handful of well-recognised names.
Former Collingwood player and coach Nathan Buckley is among a host of assistant coaches from around the competition, including Hayden Skipworth, Geelong duo James Kelly and Steven King, and Brendon Lade.
AFL Media's Josh Gabelich confirmed that the five prospects were in the sights of the Demons as a replacement for the 2021 premiership coach, Simon Goodwin.
"He (Guerra) did confirm that the shortlist has been finalised," Gabelich said on SEN.
"Still trying to work through who these names are, but what we do know is that Nathan Buckley, Hayden Skipworth, Corey Enright and Steven King are the names that they've met with.
"Brendon Lade is another one that they have met with, so expect him to be short-listed.
"So again, Melbourne (is) looking to get a move on this now. They have spent the last fortnight meeting with up to 15 different assistant coaches just for informal catch-ups and coffees.
"But the plan is to have a senior coach appointed by Grand Final week at the latest."
Brisbane mastermind and GM of Football Danny Daly recently denied Melbourne's advances to be a part of the process, while veteran mentors Adam Simpson and John Longmire dismissed any notion of a return to the hot seat in 2026.
Interim coach and caretaker Troy Chaplin also removed himself from the race despite leading the club for the final three matches of the year.
Brisbane assistant Cameron Bruce will also not be reuniting with his former club.
Chaplin says he is keen to remain at the club despite the pending change, while Midfield and Strategy Coach Sam Radford has already departed, taking a role at West Coast.
Mark Williams has also been farewelled by the club after five years.
As for Goodwin, GWS has sounded out the premiership coach for a position at the club.
