Premiership Melbourne midfielder Jack Viney looks likely to join West Coast this trade period after Essendon withdrew its interest in the hard-nosed veteran.
Viney had met with both clubs in recent days as he weighs up his playing future, having been told by the Demons earlier this off-season that he would be permitted to explore his options.
Under contract for the next two seasons, the 32-year-old has assessed the interest of both the Eagles and Bombers - two clubs keen to add experience to their respective engine rooms.
While Viney is yet to decide on his next club, Essendon has confirmed it won't be pursuing the two-time best and fairest winner.
"We've had some good discussions with Jack. We won't pursue that one at this stage," Essendon list manager Matt Rosa said on Monday.
"It's obviously a hard call, given how good of a human he is. But we've just decided to prioritise our young mids and the mids on our list.
"We really rate this year's draft as well, so we're excited about that, getting some more talent in.
"It's a tough one, cause he's such an incredible person and leader. But yeah, we'll push forward with other things at this stage."
The decision has left West Coast as the likely landing spot for Viney, with the Demons and Eagles now expected to ramp up talks over a trade deal before next Wednesday's deadline.
Given the Demons' stance, it's unlikely the Eagles will be required to trade a pick of value.
West Coast currently holds Picks 3, 21, 43, 57, 62 and 71 for this year's AFL Draft, as well as their first, second and fourth-round 2027 picks and Hawthorn's 2027 third-round pick.
