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.
Geelong
Rowan Marshall
The Cats were pushing hard for Marshall during the 2025 trade period, but were unable get a deal done with St Kilda, and the Cats clearly need to add to their ruck stocks, with Rhys Stanley and Marc Blicavs both towards the end of their career.
St Kilda were adamant on retaining Marshall during the 2025 trade period, which means Geelong will have to pay a fair price to lure the ruckman across.
Geelong is a key destination club, and if things don't go well for St Kilda in 2026, it won't be a surprise if Marshall looks to leave again.
