Melbourne forward Kysaiah Pickett has reportedly been texting his Fremantle mates that he plans to play for the Dockers next season.

Pickett has close friendships with Dockers players Shai Bolton, Quinton Narkle and former Melbourne ruckman Luke Jackson, with both Bolton and Narkle also moving to Fremantle in recent months.

According to the Herald Sun's Jon Ralph, Pickett - who signed a four-year deal with Melbourne in 2023 - recently informed players at Fremantle of his intentions to join them,ย adding to a long line of trade speculation.

Reports have indicated that the Melbourne forward flagged homesickness in his exit interview with head coach Simon Goodwin last season.

In January, a report by The West Australian suggested that a deal for Pickett could be brokered at the end of 2025.

"It is understood the homesick star is now desperate to return to WA despite being contracted until the end of 2027," the report stated.

"Sources have told The West that talks between his management and Fremantle have been ongoing and that โ€˜a lot would have to go wrong' for Pickett to not end up in purple next season."

Pickett is arguably the best small forward in the AFL, with his elite skill and physicality contributing to his 161 goals and a premiership medallion for the Demons.

Embed from Getty Images

Melbourne continues to be the focus of trade speculation, with both Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver signalling their disgruntlement with the club at stages last season.

The acquisition of Pickett would further strengthen Fremantle's forward line, following the recent signing of former Richmond star Bolton, while the club is home to the ageing Walters, who recently turned 34.

As Pickett is contracted until 2027, the Dockers would likely have to offer at least two first-round draft selections for the Melbourne forward.