Earlier this morning, Pete Ryan of The Age confirmed that Collingwood has emerged as a potential suitor for star midfielder Clayton Oliver. This development follows a surprising turn of events last week when the Melbourne Demons, under new senior coach Steven King, informed Oliver that he no longer fit into their midfield plans. The Demons are reportedly open to the four-time best-and-fairest winner seeking a new club.
AFL Trade Radio recently spoke with Collingwood’s general manager of list management, Justin Leppitsch, who confirmed that they had received a call from Oliver’s management.
“On face value, we will probably know in the next few days if we can progress with that,”
Leppitsch stated, indicating that discussions are still in the preliminary stages.
Brisbane Lions’ Strategic Moves
Meanwhile, the Brisbane Lions continue to make strategic moves in the trade market. They are set to bring in free agents Oscar Allen and Sam Draper, while potentially losing dual premiership players Callum Ah Chee and Brandon Starcevich. Ah Chee has requested a trade to Adelaide, and Starcevich is eyeing a move to the West Coast.
Despite Starcevich’s free agent status, a trade seems necessary to prevent the Eagles from losing their compensation for Allen, expected to be pick 2. The Lions are negotiating a trade for the Eagles’ pick 16, although the Eagles prefer to offer the compensation pick received in the AFL assistance package.
Carlton’s Internal Challenges
In other news, Carlton coach Michael Voss delivered a candid speech at the club’s best-and-fairest function, addressing the Blues’ internal challenges. Voss criticized the club’s lack of resilience and internal divisions, admitting his own shortcomings as a leader during a difficult season.
“Right now, we are not a very resilient football club,” Voss remarked. “This club is powerful if we choose it to be, but the fight must be out there, not in here.”
Despite a disappointing 9-14 record that left Carlton out of the finals, Voss has been backed to continue as coach until 2026. However, the club faces a player exodus, with Tom De Koning and Jack Silvagni joining St Kilda as free agents, and star forward Charlie Curnow seeking a fresh start during the upcoming trade period.
Richmond’s AFLW Triumph
On a brighter note, Richmond’s AFLW team celebrated their first win of the season, defeating Adelaide by 11 points. Monique Conti led the Tigers to a comeback victory, overturning an 11-point halftime deficit to secure an 8.10 (58) to 6.11 (47) win. This marks Richmond’s highest score of the season and the second-highest score ever conceded by the Crows.
Geelong’s Cultural Dilemma
Geelong faces its own set of challenges following a controversial social media post by Bailey Smith. The incident has highlighted potential cracks in the club’s renowned culture, which has been respected since Frank Costa and Brian Cook’s leadership. The fallout has affected key figures like captain Patrick Dangerfield and coach Chris Scott, as they grapple with Smith’s behavior and its impact on the team.
The club, known for transforming players into premiership stars, now stands at a crossroads with Smith, with the AFL also uncertain about the next steps.
Trade Rumors and Player Movements
As the trade period approaches, clubs are actively evaluating their options. The Giants met with Clayton Oliver on Sydney Harbour, while Collingwood remains a strong contender. The Adelaide Crows are also considering Oliver, although they have not yet committed.
Gold Coast is conducting due diligence on Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, a contracted Bulldog who did not play this season due to mental health reasons. The Suns are also eyeing Christian Petracca and awaiting Brayden Fiorini’s decision, as he weighs offers from Port Adelaide and Essendon.
As the AFL trade period heats up, clubs are poised to make significant moves that could reshape team dynamics for the upcoming season. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see where these star players will land.
