Contracted Melbourne ruckman Brodie Grundy appears destined to be a key player in back-to-back trade periods, with the dual All-Australian reportedly moving towards requesting a trade home to South Australia.
Grundy, 29, made the short move up Olympic Boulevard last season after Collingwood cut and run from the contracted big man, allowing the two-time Copeland Trophy winner to become a Demon.
Yet, after failing to fire as a Redleg, Grundy has been forced to ply his trade at VFL level, all despite being contracted for another four seasons.
While tied to Simon Goodwin's side, 7 News' Mitch Cleary reported on Friday that the decorated big man could soon be heading home, with Port Adelaide said to be in the market for his signature.
Cleary contended that Power head coach Ken Hinkley and star duo Zak Butters and Connor Rozee met with Grundy during their recent visit to Melbourne for the AFL's annual awards ceremony.
Over the course of the 2023 season, Hinkley has used a slew of names to vye at stoppages, including forwards Charlie Dixon, Jeremy Finalyson and Ollie Lord, as well as youtful trio Brynn Teakle, Sam Hayes and Dante Visentini.
And with starting ruckman Scott Lycett going under the knife last month and without a contract for the 2024 season, the path for Grundy's return to the City of Churches appears paved.
Given Grundy's contracted status at AAMI Park, the Demons undoubtedly hold the whip hand ahead of any negotiations with the Alberton club.
Port Adelaide could also face opposition from Sydney when contended for Grundy's services, but with the former Pie reportedly unwilling to talk terms with the Harbour City club, the three horse race seems scratched back to two.
The Power currently holds picks 37, 43, 72 and 90 at the 2023 AFL Draft in an effort to get a deal done.
