Overview: A Deadline Brimming with Negotiations
As the AFL Trade Period nears its Wednesday 7.30pm AEDT deadline, clubs are finalizing their shopping lists and strategies. The state of play on 23 major deals demonstrates the high-stakes nature of the window, with captains, elite midfielders and young stars all in play. Here is the latest on where each key deal sits, what remains for each party, and which clubs still believe a blockbuster move could unfold before the clock runs out.
ZACH MERRETT: The Hawthorn Bid Faces the Bombers’ Resolve
Essendon captain Zach Merrett remains at the heart of one of the window’s most compelling questions. Hawthorn has signaled a keen interest and could table its top picks (No.9 and a future first) along with a third club to sweeten the pot. But Essendon has been explicit: Merrett is not for sale unless a deal that clearly strengthens the Bombers materializes. The likelihood of a trade hinges on a delicate balance of picks, players and potentially outside help to bridge the gap between two strong clubs.
CHARLIE CURNOW: A Geelong Move Still Possible
Charlie Curnow’s preference is clear: Geelong is the primary destination. The Cats have already offered three first-round picks, but Carlton has resisted unless a high-quality player is included. Sydney remains in the mix with potential packages that could involve Ollie Florent and Will Hayward, but neither appears eager to move. With medicals completed with both Geelong and Sydney, the door to a Curnow trade remains ajar, though a deal would require exceptional terms that Carlton deems worthy.
CHRISTIAN PETRACCA: Demons Target Suns’ Picks
Christian Petracca continues to be discussed between Melbourne and Gold Coast. Melbourne has prioritized Bailey Humphrey in earlier discussions, but Gold Coast has made it clear he isn’t going anywhere. With Petracca on a four-year contract, Melbourne is eyeing the Suns’ picks No.7 and No.8 and other draft selections to facilitate a bid that supports Gold Coast’s academy interests at Uwland and Patterson. The key question remains whether a package can satisfy both clubs’ immediate and future needs.
ROWAN MARSHALL: Geelong Still Pushing, Saints Standing Firm
Rowan Marshall remains a target for Geelong, who tabled their No.19 pick early in negotiations. St Kilda has publicly stated Marshall isn’t for sale, complicating the chase. With finals form and ruck value, the Saints’ stance challenges Geelong to ups the ante. If talks resume before Wednesday, a late-season twist could be on the cards for the ruck matchup that the Cats crave.
Other Notable Moves and Standoffs
AFL trade talks feature a host of players with varying degrees of interest and likelihood. A standoff between Adelaide and Brisbane over Callum Ah Chee continues, as does the tug-of-war surrounding Ollie Florent, Will Hayward and James Rowbottom. Clayton Oliver’s proposed move to Greater Western Sydney is being negotiated with salary considerations and draft picks, while Deven Robertson’s West Coast arrival is a potential late development tied to delistings and rookie-list changes.
Further Rumblings: Young Talent and Veteran Returns
The window also includes Jamarra Ugle-Hagan heading toward Gold Coast on a cut-price deal and the prospect of Jack Buller, Budarick and Serong reshaping their clubs’ midfields. Brayden Fiorini’s status remains fluid, with Essendon and Gold Coast weighing a future third-round pick against Sunshine State needs. Nailed-in certainties are scarce; most moves are contingent on a domino effect that could realign multiple clubs in the final hours.
What This Means for Fans
For supporters, the final 72 hours promises drama, calculated risk and last-minute pivoting. Clubs are weighing long-term fit, culture, and draft capital as much as pure talent. Expect sharper offers, hard bargains and the occasional surprise as teams try to maximize value before the deadline.
