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.
Fremantle
Jedd Busslinger
The Bulldogs defender has only featured in seven games over his three years at the Kennel, stuck behind fellow defenders Rory Lobb and James O'Donnell in Luke Beveridge's side.
Busslinger may look to leave the Dogs for more opportunities at AFL level, and could head back home to WA for that opportunity.
Busslinger has shown his ability in his limited game time so far at the Dogs and will add another layer to the Fremantle backline, alongside Alex Pearce and Brennan Cox.
As the Dockers look to push for finals success, Fremantle will look to shore up its side and strengthen its depth of their side.
