Some trade and free agency deals can often be finalised in the final moments on deadline day, but the first initial steps can be in swing before the AFL home and away season is even underway.
Last year's trade window saw 34 players find new homes ahead of the 2026 season, with some deals being completed within hours and others being completed after months in the works.
Between both contracted players and free agents, AFL clubs and their list managers will often be scouting targets right from their first games of the season, or enter the new year with signings in mind.
With the 2026 season almost underway, each club is sure to have its list of targets coming together, as they plan to scout players across the season.
With this list, we name one player your club should be keeping a close eye on in 2026.
North Melbourne
Nick Vlastuin
Alastair Clarkson's Kangaroos need to start making a push up the ladder, and are clear on adding experienced veteran players to help develop their younger side.
Their back line is one of their biggest weaknesses, with little experience across the line, and they added premiership experience across their midfield group and forward line with Luke Parker and Jack Darling at the end of 2024, and Nick Vlastuin suits the same mould of player.
Vlastuin would help add needed experience to the Roos' defence, and help mentor and develop their younger players, as well as improve their talent and help them climb back up the ladder.
