Melbourne's multi-year pursuit of GWS forward Wade Derksen is set to come to fruition in the upcoming trade period.
Derksen formally requested a trade to Victoria last year, but the Giants, amid a heap of interest for the former MSD, held him to his contract, which expires at the end of 2025.
The Demons were one of those clubs vying for the 24-year-old's services, and after playing the slow game, they are expected to finally get their man, according to Herald Sun journalist Jon Ralph.
The reason for Derksen's trade request was to be closer to family based in Melbourne.
The athletic swingman never featured in the senior time since the mid-way point of 2022, and has played at both ends successfully.
Derksen has played 57 games for the Giants' VFL side, playing predominantly in defence but with successful stints up forward.
There have been 17 occasions when he's kicked multiple goals, including hauls of five and four throughout his journey.
It is also understood that Melbourne isn't the only club interested in Derksen, reports Ralph.
This will be a major blow to the Giants' depth stocks, with intercepting tall Leek Aleer also tipped to head south to St Kilda.
The offer from the Moorabbin club is understood to be much more lucrative than GWS is prepared to offer.
It follows an off-season where GWS saw club stalwarts Isaac Cumming, Harry Perryman, James Peatling and Nick Haynes all depart.
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