MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JANUARY 12: Aaron Francis of the Bombers runs during the Essendon Bombers training session at The Hangar on January 12, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images)

Sydney has wasted no time getting active in the trade space after last weekend's grand final loss, showing interest in out-of-favour Bomber Aaron Francis.

The 25-year-old played just four games this year after featuring in 15 games in 2021, including Essendon's elimination final.

Francis is "desperate for a fresh start" as reported by the Herald Sun, having toured Port Adelaide's facilities earlier this month.

Sydney have only shown interest in Francis but discussions are "progressing" according to Mitch Cleary of 7 News. 

He has struggled with injury and form since being drafted with Pick 6 in the 2015 draft, playing just 54 games over seven seasons with the Dons.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 24: Debutante, Aaron Francis of the Bombers in action during the 2016 AFL Round 18 match between the Essendon Bombers and the Brisbane Lions at Etihad Stadium on July 24, 2016 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images)

Francis has previously needed breaks to focus on his mental wellbeing, usually involving a return to his home state of South Australia.

He was drafted as a gun utility with excellent footskills, but has played his best AFL football as a defender.

Sydney are keen to bolster their key-position defensive stocks despite having a bevy of quality players in that position, according to Fox Sports. 

This comes during a significant period of uncertainty at Tullamarine, with a senior coach yet to be named and further football department changes expected.