The Swans have emerged as a new contender for out-of-contract Eagle Andrew Gaff,ย according toย The Daily Telegraph'sย Neil Cordy.

The star midfielder was thought to be mulling between staying at West Coast, or signing a lucrative deal with North Melbourne upwards of $1 million to return to Victoria.

But Cordy believes the impending departures ofย Dan Hannebery and Gary Rohan, coupled with Kurt Tippett's retirement will free up enough salary for the Swans to make a massive play for the 26-year old.

โ€œI can see the Swans making a play for a significant free agent in the trade period,โ€ Cordy toldย Macquarie Sports Radio.

โ€œ(Gaff) would be exactly what the Swans need.

โ€œSince Hawthorn flogged them in the 2014 Grand Final, where they really exposed them for speed and skill, the Swans have been doing everything they can to rectify that situation. But they still need more.

โ€œJosh Kennedy and Luke Parker have been absolute soldiers, but theyโ€™re starting to feel the strain just as Dan Hannebery did by carrying all that heavy lifting.

โ€œA player like Andrew Gaff would be perfect.โ€

Eagles coach Adam Simpson revealed to Fox Sports Newsโ€™ย AFL Tonightย that there has been no progression with Gaff's contract, who has had a six-year deal tabled to him for the majority of the season.