Geelong has emerged as a new contender for Essendon key defender Jordan Ridley's services for 2027 and beyond.
After missing out on prime trade target Zak Butters, the Cats have turned their attention to Ridley as the 27-year-old seeks a fresh start after struggling with consistent injury problems over the past few seasons.
AFL Media is reporting that Geelong has entered the race for Ridley's signature along with North Melbourne.
The Roos have been interested in Ridley for a long time as they look to bolster their defence and challenge for finals in 2027.
North Melbourne is also hunting Adelaide's Nick Murray to partner mobile key defender Charlie Comben in defence.
But ideally, the Roos would love to acquire Murray and Ridley's services with their defence, in particular key defenders, a major hole in their otherwise impressive list build.
Ridley had initially wanted to move north to chase the sun in Queensland with both Brisbane and Gold Coast showing interest.
However, that interest has dissipated and Ridley will now look within Victoria for a new home.
He is contracted until the end of 2029 at Essendon.
Ridley has played 111 games for the Bombers since he was taken with Pick 22 in the 2016 National Draft.
The 195cm key defender won Essendon's best-and-fairest award in 2020.
Geelong is also busy targeting GWS captain Toby Greene, who yesterday confirmed he would be leaving the Giants as a free agent to return to Victoria, and almost certainly to the Cats.
List manager Andrew Mackie has also got his cat eyes set on St Kilda ruck Rowan Marshall.
The 30-year-old Saint tried to get to the Cats last off-season, but his bid failed. It is expected Marshall will get his wish this time around and sign at Geelong.
