AFL Trade Period 2025 LIVE updates: Key stories unfold
The AFL trade period is in full swing, delivering dramatic twists, surprising negotiations, and plenty of late-night scrambling for clubs eager to reposition their lists for 2026. From the Saints’ stalled deal with Leek Aleer to the potential reshaping of the Curnow-Carlton saga, clubs are weighing risk, price, and future planning in real time. Here’s a concise roundup of the latest developments and what they could mean for the coming season.
The Saints versus Leek Aleer: a deal that didn’t stick
St Kilda have walked away from a potential trade for defender Leek Aleer after offering four years and engaging in discussions about a future second-round pick. Negotiations with GWS reportedly broke down over the Giants’ price demands, with St Kilda’s reluctance to part with a future second-round pick a sticking point. Aleer, currently in Europe on an off-season break, has not met with other clubs, but the door could reopen if terms shift. GWS had signalled they’d welcome Aleer back if talks once again align, leaving the Saints in a position of waiting and watching as the market evolves.
Why this matters
St Kilda’s approach signals a strategic pivot: secure younger, upside talent while managing cap and draft assets. If Aleer remains in limbo, the Saints might redirect resources to other targets such as Liam Ryan, who could be a long-term impact addition if the right draft pick is on the table.
Curnow: Geelong and Sydney lurking as Carlton tries to lock in the Blues star
The race to sign Charlie Curnow has become the defining storyline of this trade period. Geelong and Sydney are seen as front-runners, but Carlton remains publicly confident he will stay, at least for the foreseeable future. Carlton’s list boss Nick Austin and football boss Chris Davies both reiterated that Curnow has four years left on his deal, with Davies stating the club expects him to remain. The intrigue is whether a late push from Geelong, possibly aided by Bailey Smith’s social media hinting at a potential connection, could destabilize Carlton’s stance if the right offer emerges.
What could swing a deal
Geelong’s interest appears tied to strategic flexibility: if moving up the draft or acquiring futures becomes possible, they could use Smith’s public post as catalyst rather than a direct pathway. A deal would hinge on Carlton’s willingness to part with core assets or draft picks and whether Geelong can present a compelling package that suits the Blues’ longer-term plans.
AFL draft picks, points and the Lions’ strategic aims
Brisbane is vocal about needing draft points and is actively seeking to move picks to secure a premiership-era advantage. Their target: Daniel Annable, a highly-rated academy prospect tipped to go in the top five. The Lions’ current stance on first-round selections remains firm: they won’t part with Pick 16, though the number may drift due to father/son and academy influences. If Brisbane can boost its points tally, it could enable a future trade up, shuffling selections into next year’s draft and leaving room to pursue other assets that fit their list profile.
More movers and shakers: Humphrey, Merrett, and the broader market
Around the league, Bailey Humphrey’s social post suggesting a Moe-based move sparked downstream talks about a potential relocation. Gold Coast has explicitly ruled out moving the midfielder-forward, stressing that Humphrey is not for trade, despite interest from several clubs. Hawthorn’s Rob McCartney offered cautious optimism on pursuing Zach Merrett, acknowledging the complexity and personal nuances involved in such negotiations. While Merrett remains a contentious topic, the AFL trade landscape remains fluid, with clubs weighing short-term gains against long-term list health.
Looking ahead: what to expect over the coming days
As the trade period intensifies, expect late-night negotiations, fresh counteroffers, and possibly a few surprise moves as clubs react to each other’s public statements and private assessments. The Curnow situation, the Saints’ list adjustments, and Brisbane’s draft-points maneuvering will all play pivotal roles in shaping the ladder for 2026. For fans, the period promises entertainment, tension, and a glimpse into how front offices balance present needs with long-term strategy.
Bottom line
With key talks stalled or uncertain, clubs are hedging their bets, confident in their recruitment plans but aware that a single trade can redefine a team’s trajectory for years. The upcoming days will determine whether Geelong can orchestrate a late bid for Curnow, whether Brisbane can push its draft position to secure a top-tier prospect, or if Carlton can fend off rivals while maintaining their preferred core. Stay tuned for more live updates as negotiations continue to unfold.
