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.
Brisbane
Aliir Aliir
It's hard to find a major weakness and position of need for the Lions, but if anything, they may need another star key defender alongside captain Harris Andrews, and Aliir Aliir would fill that role.
Aliir is coming towards the end of his career, and a homecoming and a chance at a premiership would be the best way to finish an AFL career.
Alongside Andrews, there is no doubt Alir would be able to get back to his best, as one of the best intercept defenders in the league, still averaging three intercept marks per game, while playing more of a lockdown role at Port Adelaide.
