Western Bulldogs ruckman Jordon Sweet is reportedly firmly in the sights of Port Adelaide as trade-time approaches.
The little-used tall is dominating at the VFL level this season, leading all-comers in the competition in the hit-outs category through 12 appearances, however, he hasn't been afforded a look-in at the senior level, with All-Australian-contending ruck-forward Tim English possessing a vice-like grip on Luke Beveridge's number-one mantle.
As reported by AFL.com.au's Josh Gabelich, Port Adelaide is 'one of several clubs' keeping a close eye on Sweet as he remains without a contract heading into next season.
Having not served the requisite amount of seasons at Whitten Oval to qualify for free agency this year, any club desiring Sweet would have to orchestrate a trade with the Western Bulldogs, who are said to have tabled an extension offer to the 25-year-old.
The West Coast Eagles previously attempted to lure Sweet to Western Australia; however, due to his ties to North Adelaide, the Power may be better positioned to make a play for the physical Bulldog in 2023.
The Bulldogs have played both English and ex-Docker Rory Lobb in the same lineup for most of this season. However, Beveridge dropped the out-of-form Lobb in favour of father-son gun Sam Darcy ahead of this weekend.
While Darcy, not Sweet, received the nod for the Bulldogs' clash with the Swans on Thursday night, Lobb's omission may have opened the door to senior opportunity for the South Australian in the back end of the season, with the Dogs well and truly still in this year's finals race.
In addition to Sweet, a number of ruckman appear destined to receive considerable trade attention this year as the 'ruck merry-go-round' goes for its latest spin, with the likes of Carlton ruck-forward Tom De Koning, Essendon's Nick Bryan, and Port Adelaide pair Scott Lycett and Sam Hayes representing the key names slated to be in the mix this October.
The Bulldogs' bout with Sydney is scheduled for 7:20 PM (AEST) on Thursday evening at the SCG.
