North Melbourne is setting the trade bar high for captain Jy Simpkin, reportedly asking for two first-round selections.
It was revealed last month that Simpkin was open to a move, despite holding a contract for another four seasons at Arden Street.
The Kangaroos skipper has become frustrated in recent times over the lack of midfield minutes under Alastair Clarkson, having been shunted to the wing and half-forward line.
A two-time best and fairest, the Roos see immense value in Simpkin as an on-field commodity, but also as a contracted skipper and someone who sets high standards.
Pies would see the same value in his leadership - but aren’t in a position to pay that price. @7NewsMelbourne @7AFL https://t.co/JWnLAq2Mt9
— Xander McGuire (@XanderMcGuire7) October 10, 2025
The two-time best and fairest winner has seen fewer midfield minutes over the past 18 months, with the likes of Harry Sheezel, Luke Parker, Tom Powell, George Wardlaw and Colby McKercher staking their claim as first-string onballers.
Despite no overwhelming suitors knocking at Simpkin's doorstep, Collingwood has expressed interest in the 27-year-old.
Craig McRae is keen on bolstering his midfield, especially since they were dismantled in the preliminary final to eventual premiers Brisbane.
They briefly looked at Clayton Oliver before the contracted Demon stated his intention to be traded to GWS.
The Pies do not possess a first-round selection for 2025; however can pass on their opening picks for the 2026 and 2027 drafts since the AFL amended the rules on first-rounders used in a five-year period.
This AFL rule change helps the six clubs who traded out their first round picks across 2023 and 2024.
2023: Brisbane, Fremantle, Port Adelaide, Richmond
2024: Collingwood, Geelong
Details 👇 @FootyonNine @traderadio https://t.co/yNThpUItav pic.twitter.com/bbsFJ1tVlJ
— Tom Morris (@tommorris32) October 9, 2025
The league has decided to give all clubs the ability to trade future first-round picks up until the introduction of Tasmania despite their previous dealings.
However, Simpkin's lengthy contract and accompanying dollar value will make a deal hard for the Victorian powerhouse.
The 2025 Trade Period deadline is set for 7:30pm (AEDT) on Wednesday.
When Norf confuse their numbers. They meanst 1x 2nd round not 2x 1st round… There’s no bidding war on this fella!