After a season rewarded with selection to the preliminary 40-man All-Australian squad, Jake Lloyd, 24, has emerged as a target for Gold Coast who are desperate to add elite talent to their roster.
After averaging a career-best disposal count of 27.8 (including his singular finals appearance), Lloyd has reiterated his interest in remaining a Swan, as recently as two weeks go.
Leading the AFL in kicks and ranking second for uncontested possessions and rebound 50's in 2018, Lloyd is an elite prospect for the lethargic Gold Coast outfit.
However, with the reported promise of an additional $100,000 a season over four years, compared to the Swans' offer, a move to the struggling Queensland club is a possibility.
Coach John Longmire was quick to state his desire to keep Lloyd with the Swans.
"We're hoping Jake stays," he said following the disappointing finals loss to GWS.
If Lloyd, known for his ability break lines and dash through the midfield from half-back, were to leave Sydney without a stable force both behind the ball and around the contest.
Foxfooty.com.au’s Tom Morris reported that the interest Dan Hannebery is attracting from Victorian clubs such as St Kilda may provide enough salary cap relief for Sydney to retain Lloyd on similar wage to the Gold Coast offer.
The Swans will be keen to secure their young star, especially with the ageing Jarrad McVeigh likely to depart after completing his one-year contract extension.
