AFL Trade Period LIVE 2025 reaches a fever pitch
The AFL trade period for 2025 is moving into its final hours, with clubs weighing bold moves and last-minute offers as the deadline looms. The standout news of the day centers on the Carlton Blues reportedly rejecting a bid from the Sydney Swans for Charlie Curnow, keeping the league’s most prominent forward firmly in navy blue for now. While negotiations build toward the 7.30pm AEDT deadline, this story is shaping expectations about how far teams are willing to go to secure their premiership window.
Blues stand firm on Curnow as trades heat up
Sources indicate Carlton has balked at the Swans’ proposal for Charlie Curnow, underscoring the Blues’ intent to retain their star forward and build around him in the coming seasons. With Curnow’s contract status and value high, other clubs will continue to monitor any potential shifts, but Carlton’s stance suggests the deal may not be imminent. The situation remains fluid, and fans should expect a flurry of activity in the final hour as trade talks intensify and clubs reassess their lists.
Buckley signs on as Geelong’s assistant coach for 2026
In a surprising coaching development, Nathan Buckley will join Geelong as a full-time assistant to coach Chris Scott in 2026. Buckley revealed that a late-night text from Scott last week sparked his decision, followed by discussions with Geelong officials. Buckley’s move marks a return to the game after four years in media roles, including work with Fox Footy, and he has not ruled out further coaching ambitions beyond this season.
“Chris Scott is not your quintessential coach. He comes at things from a different direction,” Buckley told SEN. “Scotty sent me a text last Tuesday out of the blue. He said if I had a chance could we chat. We had that conversation, he planted the seed.” Buckley added that he feels a strong fit in Geelong’s coaching staff and is prepared for the “cut and thrust” of elite football again.
Implications for Geelong and Buckley’s career
The move is seen as a strategic hire for Geelong, adding Buckley’s experience as a former AFL premiership coach and his media insight to the Cats’ development programs. Buckley also spoke about possible pathways for the Tasmania Devils, the planned AFL team, noting ongoing licensing and stadium hurdles but expressing optimism about incorporating top-tier coaching expertise into the new venture.
Around the league: late-year deals to watch
As with past years, the trade table is expected to churn right up to the deadline. Previous late deals have reshaped finals hopes, including notable moves such as Josh Dunkley to Brisbane and Tom Mitchell to Collingwood on the final day. This year’s marquee players include Christian Petracca, Charlie Curnow, and Clayton Oliver. The saga around Zach Merrett and Hawthorn’s pursuit, as Essendon holds firm, highlights how wide the trade spectrum can be on a deadline night.
While not every deal will be ratified immediately at 7.30pm AEDT, AFL commissions typically publish accepted trades as they are approved, ensuring fans and media can track a rolling, real-time picture of the market. Expect final-day shocks, near-misses, and strategic consolidations as clubs balance salary cap realities with list-building ambitions.
Looking ahead: what this means for clubs and fans
As the clock ticks down, teams are weighing immediate needs against long-term plans. For Carlton, the question remains whether they’ll stand pat with Curnow or entertain a late pivot. For Geelong, Buckley’s addition signals a renewed focus on tactical innovation and player development under Chris Scott’s leadership. The 2025 trade period once again demonstrates the AFL’s appetite for drama, with fans bracing for the final-half-hour churn that can redefine seasons.
