AFL Trade Period Day Four: The Latest
The AFL trade period is entering a pivotal stretch as clubs push to lock in deals and the chatter swirls around big names. On day four, attention centers on Clayton Oliver, Zach Merrett, Charlie Curnow and Christian Petracca, with moves and negotiations shaping up across multiple clubs.
Oliver’s Move to GWS Looms
Clayton Oliver’s potential switch to Greater Western Sydney is the major talking point of the morning. Reports from Nine’s Mitch Cleary and AFL.com.au’s Cal Twomey suggest Oliver is ready toconfirm a decision in the near future, with GWS emerging as his likely destination. Collingwood had shown interest, but it appears contact has been difficult and Oliver may be choosing a fresh start elsewhere. The union of a star midfielder with the Giants would be a marquee outcome that could reshape the club’s fortunes and the balance of the competition.
Merrett Situation: Free Agency Under Microscope
The trade market has been complicated by free agency rules, and Zach Merrett’s status remains unsettled. Essendon has held steady, and Hawthorn has not yet launch a formal bid. The broader question about how free agency compensation should work continues to fuel debate: should the league rethink banded compensation, or is the current system functioning as intended? Former players and pundits have weighed in, arguing both sides as clubs weigh the financial and competitive implications of any deal.
Free Agency Debate: Is the System Broken?
For many fans, the free agency framework is a matter of fairness and competitiveness. Critics say the current model can incentivize clubs to overpay to retain or acquire top talent, while supporters argue it creates a dynamic market that rewards players and clubs able to navigate complex negotiations. The ongoing discussions around Sam Draper’s Brisbane move and Oscar Allen’s switch highlight how compensation choices influence club strategy and player freedom. Whether the system needs a tune-up or simply better communication remains a central question this trade period.
Curnow and Petracca: Big Names, Big Decisions
Carlton’s wait for a bid on Charlie Curnow continues, with clubs weighing how best to structure an offer that reflects his impact and durability. Separately, the Suns have shown interest in Petracca but remain clear about the players they won’t part with, emphasizing a desire to reimagine their forward line without sacrificing core strength. The dynamic between these clubs—who pursues whom, and at what price—will likely shape the late stages of the period.
A Busy Morning on the Suns, Tigers, and Eagles
Other developments include Jamarra Ugle-Hagan edging toward a Gold Coast medical, with the Suns signaling a commitment to a player who can contribute immediately onfield. The Bailey Humphrey saga with the Suns flared up again, as the club reiterated that he is not available for trade, underscoring the evolving nature of player contracts and club stance. Richmond and West Coast are discussing a Tylar Young deal, focusing on long-term list balance and draft flexibility, while the Kellaway father-son option looms as teams balance risk and reward.
What Happens Next?
With day four in full swing, negotiators are working overtime to lock in terms, medicals, and approvals. Fans should expect a flurry of updates as clubs sharpen their lists and players weigh their best career trajectories. The key names—Oliver, Merrett, Curnow, and Petracca—will likely feature in the most significant moves, but the broader trade market is equally telling of how clubs view the coming seasons.
Commentary: Your Take on Free Agency
As the smoke clears on this high-stakes period, the question remains: is the free agency system busted or does it simply reflect an evolving league where players seek the best fit? Share your thoughts in the comments and tell us where you stand on compensation, mobility, and the overall health of the trade period.
