The AFL Trade Period is underway. It’s always a fun week and here are six of the most intriguing scenarios… from the probable to the somewhat possible.
It’s on.
The AFL trade period opened Monday and based on the first two big deals already struck, this year’s transaction window threatens to be the biggest yet.
Bobby Hill will become a Magpie in 2023 after his request to move to Victoria was granted. Meanwhile, his Giants counterpart Tim Taranto has found a new home after he was traded to Richmond.
Luke Jackson’s new club is tipped to be a major talking point during this time. Brodie Grundy, Josh Dunkley and Junior Rioli are also on the agenda.
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Then there’s the question of what will become of Fremantle, with a minor exodus anticipated.
Here are some of the bigger names and conversations doing the rounds.
Jason Horne-Francis
In what was already tipped to be its biggest yet, a major revelation was made hours before the trade period kicked off. Not even twelve months after joining the Kangaroos, North Melbourne’s young gun has asked for a request to Adelaide; Port is the frontrunner destination. North Melbourne representatives have reminded everyone they’ll act in the club’s best interests, but would field offers from both the Crows and Power.
Embed from Getty ImagesTom Mitchell
While at this stage there is yet to be a trade request from Mitchell, it looks like the veteran Hawk could be on the move. It’s been reported that Hawthorn are open to the possibility of moving him, rumoured to have interest in Fremantle’s Lloyd Meek. The Hawks are also in the mix for Suns defender Jack Bowes. Contracted for next season, Collingwood is the club linked to the 2018 Brownlow medalist.
Toby Bedford
With interest from multiple rival clubs, the Demons footballer requested a trade to GWS on Sunday. The 22-year-old played only eight senior games this season, having trouble breaking into the then-reigning premiers’ best 22. While he was involved in a VFL Grand Final win, Bedford knocked back a three-year deal from Melbourne, setting his sights on Sydney’s west. Bedford’s a like-for-like replacement for the Magpie-bound Bobby Hill in attack.
Tom Berry
The Brisbane forward is keen for a move down the highway to Gold Coast, who are set to lose some big names headlined by Izak Rankine. Over four years with the side, Berry has only managed 20 games. His speed and defensive capabilities are what the Suns are after, though. With Brisbane also showing interest in Jack Bowes, Berry could be a vital jenga piece.
Jack Gunston
211 games and three premierships later, the Hawks veteran will look to join a third AFL club, requesting a switch to the sunshine state. Once a Crow in his early days, the Hawthorn champion is looking to mirror what former team mate Luke Hodge did and retire a Lion. Brisbane are proving a pivotal player this Trade Period.
Aaron Francis
It has been reported the Bombers’ out of contract defender is capturing rival interest. After appearing in just four games this season, the 25-year-old is after a fresh start. Port Adelaide was keen on the South Australian at one stage, however their interest looks to have cooled. Despite Francis having not yet officially requested a trade, the Sydney Swans are on the radar. Francis asked for a trade after just two seasons at Essendon.
