If Zach Merrett were to leave Essendon (and that looks a certainty), what would the ideal trade package look like from a Bombers perspective?
It's a question I've been asking myself as an Essendon supporter, particularly after reading Aidan Cellini's article on Zero Hanger last week.
Replacing a player of Merrett's calibre is impossible. You don't simply find another six-time Crichton Medallist and one of the competition's elite midfielders overnight. The reality is that Essendon would need to use any deal to address multiple list needs while setting themselves up for the future.
The Bombers' most glaring issues are well documented. They desperately need another key defender, greater small forward pressure and class at ground level, while a long-term ruck solution also remains high on the priority list.
With that in mind, these are the trade packages that would make the most sense for Essendon from each of the four clubs most strongly linked to Merrett.
Final Thoughts
No trade package truly replaces Zach Merrett. Players of his calibre are rarely available, and Essendon would lose far more than just elite ball- winning ability. They would lose leadership, professionalism and one of the competition's best players.
However, if Merrett ultimately decides his future lies elsewhere, Essendon's focus must shift from replacing the player to accelerating the next premiership window.
Whether that's Hawthorn's defensive reinforcement, Geelong's ready-made midfielder, Adelaide's combination of youth and draft capital, or Melbourne's exceptional draft hand, the Bombers must ensure any deal leaves them significantly better placed for the future.
Because if you're trading away a champion, you don't settle for a good deal; you demand one that shapes the next era of your football club.
