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.
Bulldogs
Zak Butters
The Biggest free agent in 2026, Zak Butters, will have nearly every team interested in him, one of the best midfielders in the AFL, and will instantly elevate any team's midfield group.
The Bulldogs are the frontrunners so far for Butters, which would instantly give the Dogs one of the best midfielders in the AFL.
Port Adelaide will be doing everything they can to keep Butters, but it will be difficult, with several clubs trying to lure him to their club.
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