AFL Trade Period Opens: What we know at the outset
The AFL’s official trade window is open for day one, and fans are waiting to see which players will push the biggest deals across the table. It’s been a lively start with chatter around Essendon captain Zach Merrett, Carlton star Charlie Curnow, and Melbourne goal-kicker Christian Petracca all being discussed in varying degrees of certainty. As the first hours tick by, the question on many lips remains: who will make the first bold move?
To kick things off, Merrett’s status has dominated conversations. The sense among insiders is that Merrett has not formally requested a trade from Essendon, though leads and strategic signaling have fans wondering about the next steps. The idea that Merrett could request a trade to expedite negotiations between Essendon and potential suitors remains on the table, but as of now he has not filed the official paperwork.
That cautious stance contrasts with the flurry of optimistic speculation you’ll hear from commentators and fans alike. The window is officially open at 9am AEDT in Melbourne, and clubs are acutely aware that any move, even a soft inquiry, can shift the balance of negotiations for weeks to come.
Blockbuster targets and likely pathways
One name that continues to surface in trade chat is Clayton Oliver. AFL.com.au’s Cal Twomey has flagged Collingwood as a potential destination for Oliver as Melbourne weighs its options. Oliver met with GWS recently but remains undecided about where to continue his career, especially with the Dees signaling willingness to contribute a large portion of his salary. For the Magpies, Oliver represents a high-reward, low-risk option if a path can be found to bring him in while balancing the salary cap.
Another intriguing scenario involves a three-club deal that would see Sam Flanders head to St Kilda, Max Heath head to Melbourne, and Christian Petracca potentially moving to Gold Coast, along with picks six and seven. Such a three-way arrangement would require careful coordination and approval from all clubs involved, but it’s the kind of sweeping deal that can alter the ladder dynamics for years to come.
Where Diets of moves stand for Petracca and Curnow
Christian Petracca remains a central figure in the Suns’ discussions, with Gold Coast keen to explore creative options that could bolster their midfield and forward lines. For Carlton, Charlie Curnow’s name features prominently as a potential magnet for forward firepower across the league; however, as with all top-shelf players, any move will hinge on a balance of trade value, salary, and the willingness of all parties to negotiate in good faith.
Early commentary suggests that clubs are ready to engage in serious conversations, especially as the window progresses and more information becomes available. The dynamic nature of day one means plans can change rapidly as lists shift and incentives are offered to entice players into new uniforms.
What ABC Sport’s coverage promises
ABC Sport opened its live coverage with renewed energy, promising daily updates and expert analysis. You’ll hear from a rotating team of commentators, with a familiar cadence of news, rumors, and official confirmations. The team emphasizes that while speculation is part of the game, verified moves and formal trade paperwork will define the day’s momentum.
As the hours unfold, fans can expect a steady stream of developments, from confirmed trades to potential three-way deals and strategic inquiries from clubs eyeing immediate impact players. With Collingwood, Melbourne, St Kilda, Gold Coast, and others in the mix, day one could set the tone for a trade period that promises drama and decisive business.
Stay tuned for live updates, deeper analysis, and the occasional surprise as the AFL’s 2025 trade window intensifies in its opening hours. Whether your club lands a star or simply adds depth, the first day is designed to test nerves, negotiate salaries, and shape the league’s landscape for months to come.
