Multiple clubs are reportedly keeping tabs on Adelaide ruckman Reilly O'Brien, who remains unsigned beyond the current season.
O'Brien is eligible for free agency in 2025 as the four-year deal he penned in 2021 reaches its conclusion at the cessation of this year.
The 29-year-old has been Adelaide's first-string ruckman for the majority of the past seven seasons, a spell that included winning the Crows' best and fairest in 2020.
After leading the league for hitouts last year, O'Brien ranks second for the metric in 2025 as he continues to serve Adelaide's strong midfield unit in a year the South Australian club is contending for a premiership.
Despite O'Brien's standing, the Calder Cannons product remains without a deal for 2026 and could hit the open market as an unrestricted free agent.
A recent report indicated O'Brien could look elsewhere after receiving an underwhelming offer from the Crows.
According toย AFL.com.au,ย Brisbane are said to be expressing some level of interest in O'Brien's services, while Geelong are also reportedly keeping tabs on the veteran's future.
The Lions look set to be active in the ruck market, having recently been linked to Essendon's own free agent and ruckman Sam Draper, who could become the reigning premiers' lead option ahead of Oscar McInerney and Darcy Fort.
Geelong are likely on the lookout for a stopgap ruck target given Rhys Stanley's age and the limited development of young pair Toby Conway and Mitch Edwards.
Given his status as an unrestricted free agent, O'Brien could be acquired by either club without a draft pick or other trade capital needing to go to Adelaide.
That means both the Lions and Cats could hold onto their draft hand and enter a bidding war for the ruckman's signature.
