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.
Gold Coast
Maurice Rioli
It is hard to find an obvious need for the Suns, with their best 23 stacked with elite talent, and young academy talent always coming through, but Rioli will add depth to their small forward stocks after Ben Ainsworth and Malcolm Rosas left in 2025.
There is an obvious connection at the Suns for Maurice Rioli, with relative Daniel Rioli at the Suns, and his former head coach taking on the reins in 2024.
Rioli has been in and out of the Tigers' side in recent years, missing a large chunk of time with a broken leg, and may not be offered another contract at the end of 2026, as the Tigers look to continue to add young talent to their side.
