player movement news – Michmutters

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Western Bulldogs interest in James Rowe, Izak Rankine to Adelaide Crows, latest

Western Bulldogs interest in James Rowe, Izak Rankine to Adelaide Crows, latest

The Western Bulldogs are set to be active in this year’s trade period, with another player linked with a Footscray move.

Plus Suns coach Stuart Dew confirms star Izak Rankine has a big decision to make on his future.

Get the latest player movement news and updates in AFL Trade Whispers!

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NEW FIRST CRACK PODCAST — R22 wrap: Why Dons MUST chase Clarko, Swans for the flag?

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DOGS TO ‘POUNCE’ ON FATHER-SON CROW

The Western Bulldogs are reportedly “red hot” on luring Adelaide’s James Rowe away from South Australia for 2023 and beyond.

Rowe, whose father Stephen played for the Crows in the 90s, is out of contract at the end of the year after being snapped up with pick 38 in the 2020 AFL draft.

But the lack of new deal has some speculating Rowe won’t be at the club next season.

“James Rowe is probably not going to get a contract at the Crows, that’s the word,” SEN SA’s Andrew Hayes said.

“The word right now is he’s probably not going to get renewed. This is a bloke who has played 16 games this year and averaging 13 disposals which is marked as above average for a small forward.

What’s happened to King’s kicking? | 01:29

“He kicked two goals on the weekend (against North Melbourne) and was a late addition for Wayne Milera.”

It’s reported the Dogs were initially interested in Rowe back at the 2020 Draft, but due to Adelaide’s bid on Jamarra Ugle-Hagan, they had to cough up enough points to match it.

“The Bulldogs are red hot into him. They were into him a couple of years ago, they were going to draft him, hence why the Crows had to nominate Jamarra Ugle-Hagan to get rid of a lot of their (the Bulldogs’) points,” Hayes said.

“They couldn’t accumulate enough points from draft picks to get to James Rowe so he could be on their list.

“Now it looks like the Bulldogs are set to pounce on James Rowe.”

Fellow SEN host Kane Cornes said Rowe “might get a better offer” from an interstate club that what he could expect from the Crows.

“I still think the Crows will offer him a contract, but whether it will be a bargain basement type set up or whether another club sees a different and a larger role for him to play,” he said.

“He might have a decision to make. It might be good for him to go to another club.

“He’ll be playing AFL football next year, I think it will still be at Adelaide but I wouldn’t be surprised if another club makes him feel a bit more loved than Adelaide has made him feel.”

Rowe played 19 games in his debut season and had featured 15 times this year – plus he was an unused medi sub for the clash with Collingwood in Round 18.

The Dogs have been strongly linked to Fremantle big man Rory Lobb this trade period, while there’s also reports of interest in Dockers swing man Griffin Logue.

How Longmire & Swans ‘disarmed’ Feet | 04:27

SUNS COACH ADMITS STAR HAS ‘BIG INCENTIVE’ TO DEPARTMENT

Gold Coast coach Stuart Dew has confirmed star Izak Rankine has received a big offer to join a rival club, with the 22-year-old out of contract at the end of the year.

Adelaide are reportedly offering the forward a five-year deal worth as much as $800,000 per season to return to his home state.

Speaking at his post match press conference on Saturday, Dew all but admitted the Suns weren’t able to match what was being offered to Rankine elsewhere.

“We certainly feel like we’ve got a great support system around him,” he said.

“We feel like we’ve put a lot of development into him and he’s starting to show where he can get to.

“When guys get to the end of their contracts, they’ve got decisions to make.

“And he’s certainly been given a big incentive to look elsewhere.”

It’s believed the Suns are offering Rankine around $650,000 per year.

Rankine has played 48 games for the Suns since being taken with pick three in the 2018 Draft.

He was taken the same year the Gold Coast snapped up Jack Lukosius (pick two) and injured forward Ben King (pick six).

“Heartbreak” awaits whoever finishes 6th | 02:27

Also taken in that draft year after Rankine were Connor Rozee (five), Bailey Smith (seven), Nick Blakey (10) and Zak Butters (12).

Just last week the Suns leadership group went public with their pleas for Rankine to remain at the club.

Co-captain Touk Miller made it clear that convincing the “special” small forward to stay was a top priority, having already re-signed Ben King, Jack Lukosius, Ben Ainsworth, Elijah Hollands and Mac Andrew this year.

“I know there’s a lot of speculation around him and his future, but for us we really want him to be at this club. He’s a special person, a special player,” Miller said.

“We’ve gone to him and had a few chats about how much he means to us and means to the club, so whether that plays a part in the decision, hopefully it does.”

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Brodie Grundy Melbourne Demons meeting, Port Adelaide salary cap, Tim Taranto Richmond

Brodie Grundy Melbourne Demons meeting, Port Adelaide salary cap, Tim Taranto Richmond

Brodie Grundy reportedly walked away from a recent meeting with Melbourne very impressed.

Plus why the Power are well placed for the next few years and the two-club race for a Giants star.

Get the latest player movement news and updates in AFL Trade Whispers!

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PIES STAR ‘BLOWN AWAY’ BY DEES IN MEETING

Brodie Grundy was reportedly “blown away” by Melbourne when the Collingwood star met with key Dees figures in recent weeks.

The Demons, as well as Geelong, last week emerged as “potential new suitors” for Grundy, who’s now central to ample trade speculation as the Pies consider offloading the 28-year-old’s lucrative contract — worth around $1 million per season until 2027 — to clear cap space for the likes of rival players Dan McStay, Bobby Hill and Tim Taranto.

Giants football boss Jason McCartney was seen meeting Grundy’s manager last month, while Port Adelaide has also been linked to the dual All-Australian.

While the Giants are now considered out of the race, the Dees have emerged as the front-runners for Grundy, who reportedly met with Melbourne figures, including coach Simon Goodwin, footy boss Alan Richardson and skipper Max Gawn, in recent weeks.

Lewis 50/50 on Gawn & Grundy tandem | 01:24

And SEN reporter Sam Edmund said Grundy liked what he saw from the Dees.

“He was so impressed by the vision Melbourne set, their professionalism and what they sold to him,” Edmund told SEN’s Crunch Time.

“It doesn’t mean that Melbourne are going for Brodie Grundy as a priority, I’m told they might want to go younger, they might want to go cheaper, but they have met with him and been very impressive getting in front of Brodie Grundy.”

Edmund pointed out the Dees also impressed Adam Cerra in a presentation, only for the midfielder to choose Carlton as Melbourne “didn’t have the levers to pull to get him in the door”.

While Goodwin last week didn’t confirm the club had met with Grundy, he said the Dees were keen to play two rucks next season amid Luke Jackson’s strong links to Fremantle.

Grundy, who hasn’t played an AFL game since Anzac Day due to a knee issue, had been nearing a return to the AFL before suffering a stress fracture in his ankle in a VFL match, ruling him out for the rest of the home and away season.

POWER PRIMED TO LAUNCH IN OFF-SEASON

Port Adelaide is well prepared to pounce on a star rival player at some stage over the next two years thanks to clever list decisions, reports the Herald Sun.

While the Power will miss finals this year after two straight preliminary final appearances in the previous two seasons, they’re in a good position to launch into the market either this year or next year.

the Herald Sun reported the Power have the capacity to be “bold and adventurous”, thanks to shrewd list management calls that have seen them generate more salary cap space than most other rival clubs.

Koch keeps Hinkley for 2023! | 02:49

According to the newspaper’s ‘AFL Rich 100’, which ranks the top 100 highest-paid players in the competition in 2022, only one Power player sits inside the top 50 – Brownlow Medalist Ollie Wines at $750,000 to $850,000 – with Scott Lycett (No. 75) and Charlie Dixon (No. 100) next in line.

It means they could make a big play for Bulldogs midfielder Josh Dunkley or contracted Magpie Brodie Grundy, should either of them wish to move to South Australia.

The Power are preparing to lose wingman Karl Amon, who’s set to exercise his free agency rights and join a rival Victorian club.

TIGERS ‘RIGHT IN THE MIX’ FOR GIANTS STAR

Collingwood could have a fight on its hands to land Tim Taranto, with Richmond “coming hard” for the off-contract Giant.

The Giants, again, are set to be active during the upcoming AFL exchange period, with several players, including Taranto, Jacob Hopper, Tanner Bruhn and Bobby Hill linked to rival clubs.

Taranto has been linked to four Victorian-based clubs, but the Tigers and Magpies appear best placed to fight for his services.

Despite the strong links to Collingwood, SEN reporter Sam Edmund said the Tigers were “right in the mix” for Taranto.

Rutten optimistic Heppell will stay | 00:48

“I know he’s been linked heavily with Collingwood, but Richmond (is) coming hard for Tim Taranto as well,” Edmund told Crunch Time.

“If you’re sitting here right now, you’re saying he’s either going to be at Punt Road or Collingwood next year.”

Taranto, who is out of contract but not a free agent until 2024, would be worth a first-round draft pick, according to Brownlow Medalist Gerard Healy.

The on-baller has played 113 games for the Giants since being drafted with Pick 2 in the 2016 draft. He won the club’s best and fairest in its Grand Final year of 2019.

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Brodie Grundy to Hawthorn Hawks, future at Collingwood Magpies, latest, Luke Jackson to Fremantle Dockers, Sean Darcy, Melbourne Demons

Brodie Grundy to Hawthorn Hawks, future at Collingwood Magpies, latest, Luke Jackson to Fremantle Dockers, Sean Darcy, Melbourne Demons

Hawthorn has responded to his potential pursuit of Brodie Grundy.

Plus a gun Docker has revealed he reached out to Luke Jackson amid intense speculation around the Demon’s future.

Get the latest player movement news and updates in AFL Trade Whispers!

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HAWKS ANSWER GRUNDY QUESTION

Hawthorn has remained tight lipped on his potential pursuit of star Brodie Grundy amid uncertain around the star ruckman’s future at the Magpies.

The Hawks have been touted as a potential landing spot for Grundy following skipper Ben McEvoy’s retirement announcement this week.

Collingwood is reportedly shopping the 28-year old to rivals and willing to chip in $300,000 of his annual salary worth around $1 million until 2025 at another club, with the Demons and Giants reportedly already meeting with the big man.

Feet rebound from cap scandal | 02:10

Asked about the potential for Hawthorn to recruit Grundy, club CEO Justin Reeves told SEN: “That’s one for Mark McKenzie (list manager). I know that’s a cop out but the reality is there are so many variables in that.

“He’s probably got plenty of footy left in him, I don’t know the figures of his contract but what we should say is you look at every opportunity that you think would make your football club better.”

Grundy, who hasn’t played an AFL game since Anzac Day due to a PCL setback, had been nearing a return to the senior level before suffering a stress fracture in his ankle in a VFL match, ruling him out for the rest of the regular season.

The ruckman signed his current lucrative deal, estimated to be worth $7 million in total, at the end of 2019.

DARCY CHECKS IN ON JACKSON

Fremantle ruckman Sean Darcy has revealed he reached out to Luke Jackson to check in on the Demons star amid intense speculation around his future.

Jackson, who’s out of contract at the end of the season and weighing up his future, has been heavily linked with a move to the Dockers on a lucrative, long-term deal that would see him return to his home state.

Speaking on Triple M, Darcy said he at large contacted Jackson to see how he was traveling mentally with all the external noise.

“I’ve spoken to him about how he’s going. It’s a pretty tough decision for him,” Darcy told Triple M.

“Flattest” feeling after Pies loss | 02:25

“I just checked on him mentally, with everything going around. It’s pretty tough on him. His name of him ‘s in the newspaper every day.

“I had a little bit last year when (reports said) I was desperate to leave. But that never came from me, that was more media making it up.”

As Jackson doesn’t yet qualify or free agency, he’d need to move clubs via trade.

The former Pick 3 has played 48 AFL games for Melbourne including in its drought-breaking premiership win last year.

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Brodie Grundy Melbourne meeting, Collingwood contract, Cameron Zurhaar Essendon, Dyson Heppell Gold Coast

Brodie Grundy Melbourne meeting, Collingwood contract, Cameron Zurhaar Essendon, Dyson Heppell Gold Coast

Brodie Grundy’s link to the Dees has strengthened after three key Melbourne figures met with the Pies ruck.

Plus while Essendon remains in negotiations with its skipper, it’s flagged preliminary interest in a North forward.

Get the latest player movement news and updates in AFL Trade Whispers!

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NEW FOX FOOTY PODCAST — Finals fight down to 10 amid a Blue’s big bump and Crows camp fallout

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KEY DEES TRIO MEET WITH PIES STAR

Not only is Melbourne interested in Brodie Grundy, the club has met with the star ruckman, according to Sportsday reporter Sam McClure.

the Herald Sun reported on Tuesday night that the Demons, as well as Geelong, had emerged as “potential new suitors” for Grundy, who’s now central to ample trade speculation despite being contracted to the Pies until the end of 2027 on a deal reportedly worth around $1 million per season.

Giants football boss Jason McCartney was seen meeting Grundy’s manager last month, while Port Adelaide has also been linked to the dual All-Australian.

Speaking on 3AW’s sports day on Tuesday night, McClure said the Dees had been proactive and met with Grundy “in recent days”.

“Simon Goodwin was definitely there, Alan Richardson was definitely there and Max Gawn was definitely there,” McClure told 3AW.

Jamie Elliot signs with Feet until 2025 | 00:37

“Clearly Melbourne are of the belief that Luke Jackson is going to Fremantle, so they are on the lookout early and are getting in early in the queue for a direct replacement.”

While Jackson appears increasingly likely to request a trade to Fremantle, the Demons are keen to continue with a two-ruck strategy — and pairing Gawn and Grundy would bring together two of the AFL’s premier ruckmen in the past decade.

Collingwood coach Craig McRae declared on Fox Footy’s AFL 360 last month he wanted Grundy at the club next season, but remained tight-lipped on whether he was up for trade.

Grundy, who hasn’t played an AFL game since Anzac Day due to a knee issue, had been nearing a return to the AFL before suffering a stress fracture in his ankle in a VFL match, ruling him out for the rest of the home and away season.

BOMBERS EYE OFF-CONTRACT ROO

Gun Kangaroos goalkicker Cameron Zurhaar has received “preliminary” interest from Essendon, SEN reports.

Zurhaar, who’s been one of the Kangaroos’ most important forward 50 players over the past four seasons, in May put off contract talks, with his manager Anthony McConville telling the Herald Sun the timing was “not right to have fruitful discussions”.

That call to park negotiations, though, came before North parted ways with senior coach David Noble. And Zurhaar has been in excellent form under caretaker coach Leigh Adams, booting 13 goals from his past four games — including four from 18 disposals and seven marks against Essendon in Round 20 — to take his season tally to a career-high 32.

Bombers inflict more misery on Kangaroos | 01:11

SEN reported the Bombers had “some interest” in Zurhaar, but the Roos also had hope he would re-sign with them after a senior coach is appointed.

The report also suggested the Bombers are looking to acquire a big-bodied midfielder during the AFL exchange period.

Zurhaar, 24, has blossomed at North since being selected as a rookie in 2016.

He’s been among the top two leading goalkickers at the club for the past four straight years, including topping the table in 2020 with 18 majors from 16 games.

HEPPELL GRILLED OVER FRESH SUNS LINK

Essendon skipper Dyson Heppell has been quizzed about his playing future amid reports of a juicy Gold Coast offer.

As Heppell weighs up a one-year offer to stay at Essendon, the Suns have reportedly upped their offer to the veteran defender and are prepared to offer him a two-year deal with the potential of a coaching future at the club post-playing career. .

While no formal deal had been tabled yet, SEN reported on Tuesday the Suns were preparing a four-year offer that would likely entail two seasons as a player then two as an assistant coach.

Suns succumb to Hawks hot streak | 02:07

Speaking to TV reporters on Tuesday, Heppell said his manager and the Bombers were “working through” negotiations, adding he was hopeful “something will be sorted soon.”

Asked if he was torn on his decision, Heppell told reporters: “We’re working through that at the moment. I’m really just honing in on trying to finish off the year well with the Dons and see how we go from there.”

Asked if a longer term deal would be more appealing, Heppell said: “Who knows at the moment? Everything will get sorted ASAP. I’m just trying to lead the club as best as I possibly can.”

As an unrestricted free agent, Heppell could walk to another club without a trade being made.

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Dyson Heppell Gold Coast Suns offer, Essendon Bombers, Josh Kennedy West Coast Eagles, Melbourne Demons, Collingwood Magpies

Dyson Heppell Gold Coast Suns offer, Essendon Bombers, Josh Kennedy West Coast Eagles, Melbourne Demons, Collingwood Magpies

Bombers skipper Dyson Heppell is reportedly “tempted” by a long-term offer from a rival club.

Plus Victorian contenders have been urged to pursue retired Eagles champion Josh Kennedy.

Get the latest AFL player movement news in Trade Whispers!

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HEPPELL ‘TEMPTED’ BY SUNS OFFER

Bombers skipper Dyson Heppell is reportedly “tempted” by a potential four-year contract offer from the Gold Coast Suns, according to SEN’s Sam Edmund.

The Suns have already been linked to the 30-year old, who was made to wait until recent weeks to receive a one-year contract offer from Essendon amid rival interest.

Edmund reports the Suns’ four-year offer would likely entail two seasons as a player then another two campaigns as assistant coach, but that no formal deal has been tabled yet.

The Suns are interested in Heppell (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)Source: FOX SPORTS

As Heppell is an unrestricted free agent, he could walk to another club without a trade being made.

The veteran has played all 20 games for the Bombers this season, averaging 22.2 disposals and 6.7 marks per contest.

Bombers coach Ben Rutten earlier this year said he hoped Heppell would remain at the club.

“Yeah, (we want him at the club next year) absolutely. We’re talking with Dyson at the moment about what that looks like so that won’t be too far off,” he said.

“We’ve been pretty clear with ‘Dys’ and have communicated with him about all that.”

VIC CONTENDERS URGED TO PURSUE RETIRED KENNEDY

Dual All-Australian Kane Cornes has urged Melbourne and Collingwood to try and lure retired Eagles champion Josh Kennedy east for next season.

Kennedy remarkably booted eight goals in his farewell game against Adelaide on Sunday — the equal second-most goals kicked by a player in their final match in VFL/AFL history — having called time on his career due to an ongoing knee issue.

However Cornes believes the Victorian rivals should make a play for the 34-year old without the expectation he needs to play every game.

Kennedy kicks EIGHT in his finale! | 01:25

“If I was a Melbourne or a Collingwood I’d be trying to get this guy out of retirement, look at what he did (against Adelaide),” he said on Channel 9’s Footy Classified.

“Sell it to him — you don’t have to train until January, we’re going to pay you a good contract for two years., you’ll play 16-17 games for the year.

“If he’s not a player that Melbourne be going after I’d be surprised.”

Kennedy has booted 723 goals from 293 AFL games.

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Miles Bergman to Victoria, teams interested, Geelong number one target, Jacob Hopper

Miles Bergman to Victoria, teams interested, Geelong number one target, Jacob Hopper

A former first-round pick is drawing interest from clubs in his home state of Victoria.

Plus Geelong’s “number one target” in the upcoming trade period revealed.

Get the latest AFL player movement news in Trade Whispers!

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POWER FIRST-ROUND PICK COULD BE HEADING HOME

Miles Bergman is drawing interest from Victorian clubs and veteran SA journalist Michelangelo Rucci believes he will not be at Port Adelaide next year.

The 20-year-old has played seven games this season after featuring 23 times in his 2021 debut season, including playing in both finals.

A first-round pick in 2019, Bergman is contracted for another season but Rucci reported he is drawing interest from teams in his home state.

“We know there’s going to be an enormous trade market, but it’s not just going to be players falling out of contract,” Rucci said on SEN SA’s The Run Home.

“Miles Bergman is under contract until 2023, the end of next season. But he has – what I’ve been told – fair interest from a few Victorian clubs to lure him back to Melbourne.

“He was a first-round draft pick, number 14 for Port Adelaide in 2019, has a Rising Star nomination last year and had a difficult past 12 months with Covid.

“If he gets tempted to move, Port are going to have some interesting talks with clubs about what they want back.

“I don’t think (he will be at Port next year).”

Bergman was the Rising Star nominated in Round 21 last year after being selected with Pick 14 in the 2019 draft, in between Will Day (Hawthorn) and Cody Weightman (Western Bulldogs), and just before Mitch Georgiades (Port Adelaide) and Sam De Koning (Geelong).

Best three kicks at goal since Plugger | 00:58

CATS’ NUMBER ONE TARGET REVEALED

Geelong is prioritizing contracted GWS midfielder Jacob Hopper in the upcoming trade period, reports SEN’s Sam Edmund.

The Cats are one of a number of clubs showing interest in Hopper, who is among a group of Giants expected to depart the club this off-season.

His midfield mate Tim Taranto has been linked to clubs including Richmond and Collingwood, while the Tigers and Adelaide have interest in Hopper.

The Cats have also been linked to Geelong Falcons product and 2020 first-round pick Tanner Bruhn, but reported Edmund Hopper is their number one target.

“GWS, all bets are off here, they might be the most active in the trade window which we’ve spoken about as they look to balance the books,” he said on SEN’s Crunch Time.

“It’s not an exodus as such, I think it will be really targeted in terms of who they let go and they’ve got some levers to pull here given not all their players are in contract.

“Tanner Bruhn is definitely out, he wants to get back to Victoria only two years after being taken with Pick 12 in the 2020 draft.

“Bobby Hill has wanted a trade since this time last year, and Tim Taranto is out of contract and widely expected to seek a fresh start.

“And then there’s his midfield running mate Jacob Hopper, who’s got a year to run but Geelong have expressed a real interest in him, as well as Jordan De Goey.

“I think Hopper is their number one target there.

“Nick Haynes has been raised, contracted long term, Lachie Whitfield even just around the edges as well as someone who’s locked in for the long term as well.

“So there’s a bit to work out at GWS also with a new coach coming in.”

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Brodie Grundy Port Adelaide, Collingwood contract, Elliott Himmelberg Fremantle, Jordan De Goey St Kilda

Brodie Grundy Port Adelaide, Collingwood contract, Elliott Himmelberg Fremantle, Jordan De Goey St Kilda

Another rival club has been linked to Brodie Grundy, while St Kilda’s interest in his teammate hasn’t cooled.

Plus Fremantle is keeping tabs on a fringe Crow.

Get the latest player movement news and updates in AFL Trade Whispers!

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NEW FOX FOOTY PODCAST — Six polarizing finals contenders, latest trade whispers

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NEW SUIT FOR PIES STAR

Port Adelaide has emerged as a suitor for Brodie Grundy should the star ruck wish to be traded at season’s end, reports 7NewsMelbourne.

Multiple reports have indicated Grundy’s management are preparing to be asked by Collingwood about the possibility of trading the dual All-Australian, even though he’s contracted to the club until the end of 2027 on a deal worth around $1 million per season.

Collingwood coach Craig McRae last week declared on Fox Footy’s AFL 360 he wanted Grundy at the club next season, but remained tight-lipped on whether he was up for trade.

The Giants reportedly have interest in Grundy – speculation that grew last month when Grundy’s manager was seen meeting with Giants football boss Jason McCartney, where the dual All-Australian’s future was reportedly discussed.

But 7NewsMelbourne reported the Power was also keeping tabs on Grundy’s situation.

McRae evasive on Grundy & De Goey trades | 01:54

“Port Adelaide is interested in where Grundy is going to end up and his trade status at the end of the year,” reporter Tom Browne told 7NewsMelbourne. “But at this stage the Power don’t see Grundy leaving Victoria

“If Grundy approves, Collingwood is expected to gauge his trade interest post-season.”

Power premiership player Kane Cornes last month flagged his old club as an appropriate destination for Grundy should he be prepared to move home, telling SEN Breakfast the Power could “absolutely use” Grundy and adding: “He’d fit in at Port Adelaide and take over from Scott Lycett.”

DOCKERS ‘IDENTIFY’ FRINGE CROW TO POSSIBLY FILL CHASM

Crows forward Elliott Himmelberg has been identified by Fremantle as a possible trade acquisition, reports SEN SA.

The Dockers are bracing to lose goalkicker Rory Lobb, who’s expected to request a trade at season’s end despite still being contracted to Freo.

Himmelberg, 24, kicked bags of four goals in Adelaide’s wins over the Power and Tigers earlier this season, but has struggled for senior game time this year with Riley Thilthorpe, Taylor Walker and Darcy Fogarty the preferred key-position combination.

Subsequently, Fremantle is reportedly keeping tabs on Himmelberg, who’s kicked 38 goals from just 37 games since being taken with Pick 51 in the 2016 draft.

Busy off-season looms for the Dockers | 00:56

“Fremantle are putting together their list of how they overcome the issues of what they’ve got in attack, or don’t have in attack,” veteran journalist Michelangelo Rucci told SEN SA’s The Run Home.

“And the player that they’re identifying – I stress identifying, so they’re doing their due diligence – is Elliott Himmelberg at Adelaide. He’s out of contract, they think he’s the fit for them.

“We know he’s a tall player who can play forward and ruck – they want him as a forward. They desperately need to shore up their attack.

“He is growing with interest at Fremantle.”

SAINTS INSIST DE GOEY INTERESTED HASN’T COOLED

St Kilda coach Brett Ratten insists his club’s interest in Jordan De Goey hasn’t waned, even though the board has yet to approve a pursuit of the Collingwood free agent.

It was revealed earlier this week the Saints’ board had asked the football department for more information about De Goey, who’s out of contract at season’s end and eligible for free agency.

The Age reported the board wanted clarity around how De Goey would fit within the club’s playing list, as well as its leadership and values.

St Kilda Saints press conference | 06:25

But Ratten denied that it was a sign that the club had cooled on its pursuit of De Goey, saying it was perfectly normal for the board to ask questions about the star Magpie before potentially recruiting him.

“It doesn’t matter if we’re employing new staff members or players, we have to run things past the board and they have the right to challenge and ask questions and see where we’re at with it,” Ratten said.

“He’s very talented but we’re still working through that.”

Geelong has also been linked to De Goey.

— with NCA Newswire

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Izak Rankine Adelaide Crows, Ollie Henry Collingwood contract

Izak Rankine Adelaide Crows, Ollie Henry Collingwood contract

A Suns star is still off-contract—and the Crows are preparing to pounce.

Plus the intriguing contract situation surrounding a young Magpies forward.

Get the latest player movement news and updates in AFL Trade Whispers!

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NEW FOX FOOTY PODCAST — Six polarizing finals contenders, latest trade whispers

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CROWS KEEPING TABS ON SUNS STAR

Adelaide is making a major play for homegrown forward Izak Rankine in what would be one of the biggest coups of this year’s trade period.

Gold Coast officials have long been confident of retaining Rankine after already re-signing fellow South Australian Jack Lukosius, as well as Ben King, Ben Ainsworth, Elijah Hollands and Mac Andrew.

The Suns are also expected to soon ink Lachie Weller on a four-year contract.

Rankine, who was drafted from SANFL club West Adelaide with the No. 3 pick in the talent-laden 2018 class, is out of contract at season’s end but is not a free agent.

The Crows would likely need to part with their first-round draft selection, which is currently No. 4 after their weekend win over Carlton, if they convince Rankine to leave, but that may be only the start of what was required.

However, the 22-year-old’s contract status, and the possible threat of Adelaide grabbing him in the pre-season draft, could complicate any potential negotiations.

Izak Rankin of the Suns. Picture: Russell FreemanSource: Getty Images

The Blues did exactly that with ex-Gold Coast footballer Jack Martin three years ago after discussions between the clubs broke down, heavily front-ending his deal to ward off other suitors.

Essendon already made a lucrative pitch to Rankine’s management this year to try to lure him to Victoria, with the young star’s career-best season catching rivals’ attention.

His agent, Garry Winter, of W Sports and Media, was previously on Adelaide’s board, and it could be worth up to $800,000 per season for Rankine to become a Crow on a long-term deal.

Rankine’s three-goal performance against West Coast on Sunday was his seventh match with multiple majors in 2022, along with averaging 14 disposals and six score involvements.

He would be a significant upgrade on rebuilding Adelaide’s small forward corps and could form a deadly duo with last year’s first-round draftee Josh Rachele.

Rachele’s 17 goals rank fourth at the Crows – behind tall targets Taylor Walker (42) and Darcy Fogarty (22), as well as spring-heeled forward Shane McAdam (18) – while Ned McHenry and James Rowe have each kicked only 10.

They sit in the bottom four on the ladder and for scoring, so Rankine would provide an excellent boost ahead of a season where Matthew Nicks’ team hopes to take a leap.

Suns keep finals hope alive | 01:25

Adelaide’s list management team met with Melbourne goals neak Kade Chandler, another South Australian, during last year’s trade period before he decided to stay at the Demons.

The Crows were linked with Western Bulldogs midfielder Josh Dunkley for many months but it’s now believed Port Adelaide would be the South Australian club he would join if he left the Kennel.

Dunkley’s girlfriend, Tippah Dwan, plays netball for the Adelaide Thunderbirds.

Asked last week about the delay in Rankine re-signing, Gold Coast coach Stuart Dew said they were “still confident” he would be at the club in 2023.

“There’s always a process. Things happen at different rates and different speeds,” Dew said.

“A number of contracts we’ve done have actually taken longer, so as long as the conversations are happening, that’s where the confidence comes from.

“It’s when it goes quiet (that you get concerned), and it’s certainly not like that – the dialogue’s still there.”

—NCA Newswire

HENRY, PIES ‘NOT OVERLY CLOSE’ TO FRESH CONTRACT

Collingwood and young forward Ollie Henry are “not overly close” on signing a new deal, but both parties remain confident a contract will be signed soon, reports SEN’s Sam Edmund.

Henry has had a promising yet rollercoaster 2022 season with the Magpies so far, booting 21.15 from 14 games. He started as the sub against Freo in Round 10 but came on to kick 4.1, while he was the unused medical sub against the Adelaide Crows in Round 18 and has spent the past two weekends in the VFL, booting 4.2 and 3.1 respectively.

The 20-year-old is uncontracted beyond this season. In May I told AFL Media he wasn’t in a rush to sign a new contract but declared he was “loving his time at Collingwood”.

Goodwin and Fagan discuss trade rumors | 03:43

Edmund reported on SEN Breakfast on Tuesday that talks between Henry’s management and the Magpies were ongoing, adding they’d met “in the last week or two”.

“Not overly close at this stage at Collingwood, but I think this one gets worked out. Both parties expect that to be the case,” Edmund told SEN Breakfast.

“The Pies want him to stay and Henry wants to stay, but with (Dan) McStay coming in there’s some things to work out around what his future looks like on game day.”

“I think they’ll get there, no real reason to think otherwise at this stage. It just needs to be worked through with the pieces coming back the other way like Dan McStay and the like.”

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Luke Jackson future at Melbourne Demons, Fremantle Dockers, Dan McStay, Brisbane Lions, Collingwood Magpies, Jordan De Goey, St Kilda Saints

Luke Jackson future at Melbourne Demons, Fremantle Dockers, Dan McStay, Brisbane Lions, Collingwood Magpies, Jordan De Goey, St Kilda Saints

Melbourne and Brisbane have been quizzed on the futures of two their respective out-of-contract stars as rumors swirl.

Plus the latest on a suitor’s Jordan De Goey bid as well as Dan Hannebery’s future.

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DEES, LIONS CONFIRM HONEST CHATS WITH OFF-CONTRACT STARS

Melbourne coach Simon Goodwin has admitted he’s had “honest chats” with out-out-contract star Luke Jackson about his future, saying the youngster faces a massive call ahead.

Jackson has put off contract talks until the end of the season and been heavily linked with a move to Fremantle as he weighs up returning to his home state of Western Australia.

Speaking on Fox Footy’s AFL 360, Goodwin implored the 20-year old to not be distracted by his future plans and keep his focus on helping the Demons’ bid for back-to-back premierships.

“I’ve had some great chats with Luke and some were honest chats about we just want him to perform for the Melbourne footy club, however long that may be,” Goodwin told Fox Footy.

“That’s what our focus has been, whether that’s 10 weeks, whether that’s the next 10 years, and he’s been really open … he’s fully committed to Melbourne.”

Jackson rucking against Freo (Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)Source: FOX SPORTS

“Our responsibility as a club is to be mature in our approach towards that end, and get the best out of the Luke for however long he’s at our footy club… those conversations have been held with Luke and he’s embraced it.

“He needs time to make his decision… we’ve said to Luke all along, ‘you take as much time as you need’.

“He’s got the chance to go home at some stage throughout his career and he’s got a footy club that he loves at the moment, so it’s a big decision for him to make.”

Brisbane faces a similar situation with key forward Dan McStay, who’s been heavily linked to Collingwood on a five-year, $3 million deal.

And like Goodwin, Lions coach Chris Fagan just wanted to see McStay put his best foot forward while wearing the Brisbane jumper.

Fagan addresses Clarko whispers | 00:43

“I’d have a couple of chats with Daniel during the season. These are challenging times for players when they’ve got to make decisions about their futures,” Fagan told AFL 360.

“I just wanted to make sure Daniel felt supported and also to encourage him to play the best football he can for the rest of the year.

“Whatever decision he makes he makes, hopefully he decides to stay with the Lions, but if he doesn’t he’s given us great service and we’re grateful for what he’s contributed to the club.”

Asked if players and clubs should announce moves ahead of time, like in the NRL, Fagan said: “That probably seems the mature way to do it, I just don’t know whether we’re ready for that and whether all clubs will be comfortable.

“Some players might feel like if they say they’re going, that would endanger their chances perhaps for selection for the rest of the year or the club might turn in a different direction.

“I don’t know whether we’ve arrived at that level of maturity with football yet, I’d like to think so.”

SAINTS WANT MORE BY GOEY CLARITY

St Kilda’s board has requested its football department for more information on Jordan De Goey before it ticks off making a formal push for the free agent Magpies star, reports TheAge.

The Saints have been linked to De Goey, who was discussed at the club’s board meeting on Thursday night as it weighs up an aggressive pursuit of the 26-year old.

It’s believed the board wants to be satisfied he’s the “right fit” for the club both on and off the field including its leadership and values ​​and whether he could help the club win a premiership.

De Goey’s future at Collingwood is in doubt after the Pies pulled their most recent contract offer to him following his Bali exploits — a two-year deal with a trigger for another two years, totaling $3.2 million.

De Goey returned from a quad injury on the weekend (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)Source: FOX SPORTS

Geelong is also interested in the midfielder/forward, while St Kilda coach Brett Ratten confirmed in June his club would want to look at “all the evidence” around De Goey’s off-field indiscretions before ruling out a play for the out-of-contract Collingwood star.

“We’d have to do our homework and have a look at exactly what has happened and taking all the evidence as you do when you bring in any player, especially opponents from another club,” Ratten said.

“You’re looking at the on-field performance, and you’re looking at what you’re trying to build as a football club and culture and that as well. So we take in both sides of the equation, and then we make decisions around there and all those free agents will be singled out and sort of maybe targeting one or two, if it’s possible.

“We do assess everything they do on and off the field.”

HANNEBERY ‘PRETTY KEEN’ TO PLAY ON

Herald Sun journalist Jon Ralph reports Dan Hannebery is “pretty keen” to play on in 2023, but believes the out-of-contract Saint may have to settle for a rookie list spot.

Hannebery enjoyed a strong return to the field against Hawthorn — an inclusion that raised the eyebrows of some pundits — racking up 27 disposals and booting one goal in the St Kilda’s 12-point win in his first game since Round 23 last year.

However the injury-plagued 31-year old, who’s coming towards the end of a four-season deal worth around $800,000 per season — a contract renegotiated to a reduced figure this year — has struggled to stay on the park in recent years, playing just 16 senior games in four campaigns due to several setbacks.

Giants keen to ‘correct their cap’ | 04:04

Speaking on Fox Footy’s on the couch, Ralph provided the latest on Hannebery’s future.

“Officially out of contract, pretty keen to go again — probably needs to make the next three weeks a winner.

“He funded his own trip over to ‘Healing Hans’ the German soft tissue expert… he’s taken multiple hundreds of thousands of dollars pay cut.

“I think one possibility is if he gets through the year, you go onto the rookie list or you spend a summer trying to train yourself up — and if you can get through it, it gives you another year as a summer rookie.”

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Trade Whispers, Collingwood Magpies, Jamie Elliott, Melbourne Demons, Luke Jackson, Fremantle Dockers, Matthew Pavlich, Bailey Banfield, Dan McStay, Tim Taranto

Trade Whispers, Collingwood Magpies, Jamie Elliott, Melbourne Demons, Luke Jackson, Fremantle Dockers, Matthew Pavlich, Bailey Banfield, Dan McStay, Tim Taranto

Dockers great Matthew Pavlich claims Luke Jackson is Fremantle’s “answer for the future” and believes the club should be “going hard for him”.

Plus the Pies are confident on a new deal for a star for 2023 and beyond.

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WHY JACKSON IS FREMANTLE’S ‘ANSWER’

Fremantle should be “going hard” for Luke Jackson, according to Dockers great Matthew Pavlich as he believes the 20-year-old is the “answer” for the future.

Jackson is out of contract at the end of this season, and has put talks on hold with the Demons. It’s fueled speculation he wants to return home to WA for 2023 and beyond.

While there’s plenty of debate over just how much the young ruckman is worth per season, with some estimates at $800,000, Pavlich says a partnership between Jackson and Sean Darcy is one Fremantle fans should get around.

“There’s the now and then there’s the future,” he said on SEN WA.

“The now, Luke Jackson would be a pretty good player in that Fremantle side. If you take out, I guess you’d have to give something to get something. So is it Rory Lobb for Luke Jackson? Is that part of the deal? I don’t know.

AFL investigating alleged racist slur | 00:24

“Whether he’s the answer right now, he’s a great player. We know what he’s capable of. He’s 20.

“In the context of young developing ruckmen, he’s a great young developing ruckman.

“Is he a great player yet? No. He’s got the potential to be a really great player.

“He’s the answer for the future. He can help Fremantle long-term.

“I would absolutely be going hard for him… him and Sean Darcy as a combination between ruck/forward – that’s a threat for a long time if you’re a Fremantle supporter.”

But what would the Dockers have to offer and where would Jackson fit into the line up?

Pavlich says Darcy would still remain the number one ruck in his eyes.

“What they miss is a dynamic leading forward at the moment,” he said.

“But if you wanted to look at Luke Jackson in a Fremantle jumper on Friday night then you’d take out something and it’d have to be one of the key forwards from the Fremantle line up.”

Despite all the contract talk surrounding Luke Jackson, Melbourne captain Max Gawn is confident his premiership teammate will knock back a huge offer to join Fremantle.

“Luke’s a talent and he’s got every right, as every player does, to look at any offer that’s coming his way,” Gawn told reporters on Monday.

“Most arrogant performance!” | 03:02

“I’m pretty confident he’s going to be a Melbourne player still and I know that’s very far from what the consensus is out in the media.

“He was the happiest person I’ve ever seen (last Friday night) beating Fremantle, who is the team that he’s supposed to be going to.

“I love playing with him, I love being his leader, I love being his friend, I love coaching him and I love seeing little bits that I’ve told him during the week come out on game day.

“I’m really excited, especially for the next seven weeks, to play with Luke and then hopefully for the next few years.”

Local fans in Perth taunted Melbourne players last Friday night by hanging a Fremantle jersey with “Jackson” written on it over the race. The jersey was snatched and then thrown away by Jackson’s teammate Jake Melksham.

FEET STAR SET TO LOCK IN NEW DEAL

Collingwood are looking to lock in Round 19 hero Jamie Elliott on a new deal for 2023 and beyond.

Elliott becomes an unrestricted free agent after 11 seasons with the club.

Magpies CEO Mark Anderson on Monday said he was pleased with progress on a new deal for Elliott.

“Discussions are going well with ‘Billy’,” Anderson said on SEN.

Bombers inflict more misery on Kangaroos | 01:11

“Graham Wright heads up that area and does a great job in that space.

“Discussions with Billy are going well.”

But he refused to be drawn into talk about potential offers for Lion Dan McStay or Giant Tim Taranto.

“We’re focused on our current playing group with four rounds to go,” he said.

“We’ve got a great list and they’re performing.

“So we are staying focused.

“We don’t talk about players at other clubs and it wouldn’t be appropriate to do so.”

Collingwood have a host of players out of contract including Jordan De Goey, the Brown brothers Callum and Tyler, Steele Sidebottom, Mason Cox and young Josh Carmichael.

FRINGE DOCKER URGED TO STAY PUT

Bailey Banfield is having a great season for the Dockers, and sits inside their top five goal scorers in 2022.

But the 24-year-old remains on the fringe, as an unused medi sub on five separate occasions and activated as the sub in other matches.

Round 20 MROnews | 00:43

WA commentator Tim Gossage argued Banfield would get a game at “four or five other clubs and play 20 games a year” if he left the Dockers in search of a more permanent role.

But Fremantle great Matthew Pavlich urged Banfield to “stick it out”.

“Would he get personal satisfaction and would he get a sense of purpose of being in a group and building and working his way into a team? No he would n’t (if he he left), ”Pavlich sad on SEN.

“He could go to, you’re right, half a dozen clubs, 12 clubs and be playing most weeks.

“But all his effort, his leadership, he’s rated really highly down there. It would not be necessarily worth his time if he chose to leave.

“He’s put all this effort in… I would stick it out but that’s just the way I look at those things.”

While statistics show Banfield has kicked 18 goals from 19 matches, he didn’t get on the field for five of those games.

Banfield was snapped up with pick five in the 2018 rookie draft after being named Claremont’s best and fairest in the WAFL in 2017.

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