Premier AFL Players Explore New Club Opportunities: Petracca, Curnow, and Merrett in Spotlight

AFL Trade Period: Bombers Stand Firm on Captain, Giants and Magpies Circle Star

Melbourne, Australia – October 6, 2025 – The Australian Football League (AFL) Trade Period is underway, with clubs maneuvering to reshape their rosters for the 2026 season. Day one of the period saw meaningful developments, including Essendon’s unwavering position on retaining captain Zach Merrett and the emergence of multiple clubs vying for the services of Clayton Oliver.

Essendon Digs In Regarding Merrett’s Future

Essendon Football Club has emphatically stated that it will not consider trade offers for its captain, Zach Merrett, despite his reported interest in joining Hawthorn. The club’s General Manager of List and Recruiting, Matt Rosa, confirmed Merrett remains a “required player” and a “champion” of the Bombers. this firm stance comes after Merrett unexpectedly met with Hawthorn Coach Sam Mitchell and Football Department Head Rob McCartney in September.

despite the reported discussions, Rosa indicated that Merrett has not formally requested a trade, and the club intends to hold firm in its commitment to him.

Oliver Attracts Interest from Multiple Clubs

Star Melbourne onballer Clayton Oliver is generating considerable interest from several clubs after Melbourne officials suggested he explore his options. Both the Greater Western Sydney (GWS) Giants and Collingwood have emerged as potential suitors. Representatives from the Giants reportedly met with Oliver on Friday in Sydney Harbour, while Collingwood’s General Manager of List Management, Justin Leppitsch, confirmed that the club has received interaction from Oliver’s management.

Leppitsch emphasized that Collingwood is conducting thorough due diligence to assess whether a potential acquisition would align with the club’s culture, positional needs, and overall strategic objectives. The magpies have not yet met with Oliver personally.

Player Movement Updates

Elsewhere,North Melbourne welcomed Charlie Spargo as a new addition,with the unrestricted free agent following in his father’s footsteps in donning the Kangaroos’ colors. Port Adelaide secured Giants defender/wingman Jacob Wehr as an unrestricted free agent, with List Manager Jason Cripps highlighting Wehr’s potential to add experience to the team’s midfield.

Sydney Sets Sights on Carlton’s Curnow

Sydney Swans have identified Carlton’s Charlie Curnow as a key target during this trade period. curnow reportedly expressed openness to a potential move during an exit meeting with the Blues, despite being contracted until the end of the 2029 season.Sydney’s List Manager, Chris Keane, indicated they are yet to discuss potential trades involving their own players to facilitate a deal with Carlton. The Swans are also pursuing Hawthorn’s jai Serong, who has nominated Sydney as his preferred destination.

Player	Current Club	Potential New Club(s)
Zach Merrett	Essendon	Hawthorn
Clayton Oliver	Melbourne	Collingwood,GWS Giants
Charlie Spargo	Free Agent	North Melbourne
Jacob Wehr	GWS Giants	Port Adelaide
Charlie Curnow	Carlton	Sydney Swans
Jai Serong	Hawthorn	Sydney Swans

Understanding the AFL Trade Period

The AFL Trade Period is an annual chance for clubs to exchange players and draft picks.It typically takes place after the AFL Grand Final and before the National Draft. Clubs use this period to address list imbalances, acquire specific skills, and position themselves for future success. The period is governed by strict rules and regulations, designed to ensure a fair and equitable process for all clubs.Key to success during the trade period lies in strong list management, understanding player values, and skillful negotiation.

Did You Know? The AFL Trade Period has evolved significantly over the years,becoming increasingly complex and strategic.

Pro Tip: Following the trade period closely can provide valuable insight into a club’s long-term strategy and future prospects.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Trade Period

• What is the AFL Trade Period? The AFL Trade Period is a designated time for clubs to trade players and draft picks.
• What happens if a player doesn’t want to be traded? Players have agency and can refuse a trade, but this can lead to complex negotiations.
• how are draft picks used in trades? Draft picks are valuable assets that allow clubs to acquire future talent.
• What is an unrestricted free agent? An unrestricted free agent can move to any club without their previous club receiving compensation.
• What impacts a player’s trade value? Factors like age, skill, contract length, and positional needs all play a role in determining a player’s trade value.
• How long does the AFL Trade Period typically last? The AFL Trade Period usually spans around two weeks.
• Where can I find more information about the AFL Trade Period? Visit the official AFL website for the latest news and updates.

What are your predictions for the biggest move of this AFL Trade Period? Will Essendon hold firm on Merrett, or will the lure of a new club prove too strong? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What impact could Clayton Oliver’s departure have on the Melbourne Demons’ midfield structure?

the Shifting Landscape of AFL Player Movement

The AFL trade period is always a period of intense speculation, but the potential movement of established stars like Clayton Oliver, Charlie Curnow, and Zach Merrett has sent ripples through the league.This year’s free agency and trade discussions are especially captivating, with several premier AFL players reportedly exploring new club opportunities. Understanding the motivations behind these potential moves, the clubs involved, and the potential impact on the 2026 AFL season is crucial for fans and analysts alike. We’ll break down the latest developments surrounding these key players, focusing on their current situations and possible destinations.

Clayton Oliver: A Contested Midfielder on the Move?

Clayton Oliver, the Melbourne Demons’ star midfielder, is arguably the biggest name currently linked with a potential move. Despite being a three-time best and fairest winner, reports suggest Oliver is seeking a fresh start.

* Reasons for Potential Departure: Contract disputes and reported issues with the Demons’ coaching staff are cited as primary drivers.Oliver’s desire for a different environment and a role where he feels fully valued are also key factors.

* Potential Suitors: GWS Giants and Hawthorn are consistently mentioned as leading contenders. Both clubs offer a clear midfield need and the prospect for Oliver to become a central figure. Brisbane Lions have also been floated as a dark horse.

* Trade Value: Oliver’s value is immense. Any trade would likely involve multiple first-round draft picks and perhaps established players. Melbourne will be reluctant to let him go without receiving notable compensation.

* Impact on Melbourne: Losing Oliver would be a massive blow to the Demons’ premiership aspirations.They would need to rebuild their midfield and find a replacement for his contested ball-winning ability.

Charlie Curnow: Key Forward Attracting Interest

Charlie Curnow, the Coleman Medal winner and Carlton’s spearhead, is another player generating significant trade buzz.While Carlton is keen to retain him, rival clubs are circling.

* Carlton’s Position: The Blues are reportedly offering Curnow a lucrative long-term contract, but he hasn’t yet committed.

* Potential Destinations: Adelaide Crows and Gold Coast Suns are the clubs most frequently linked. Both offer appealing lifestyle factors and the opportunity for Curnow to be the focal point of their forward line.

* Curnow’s Demands: Reports suggest Curnow is seeking a contract that reflects his status as one of the league’s premier key forwards, potentially including performance-based incentives.

* Impact on Carlton: Losing Curnow would severely hamper Carlton’s attacking potency. They would need to find a replacement capable of kicking a similar goal tally. The Blues’ premiership window could narrow substantially.

Zach Merrett: Essendon Captain Considering Options

Zach Merrett, the Essendon Bombers’ respected captain, is weighing up his future. While he has a strong connection to the club, he is exploring his options as a free agent.

* Essendon’s Situation: The Bombers are undergoing a period of transition under new coach Brad Scott. Merrett’s leadership is highly valued, but the club’s direction may not align with his long-term goals.

* Potential Clubs: Collingwood and Western Bulldogs have been mentioned as potential suitors. Both clubs are in premiership contention and could benefit from Merrett’s leadership and ball-winning skills.

* Merrett’s Priorities: Stability, a clear pathway to success, and a role where he can continue to influence the game are likely to be key considerations for merrett.

* Impact on Essendon: Losing Merrett would be a significant loss for the Bombers, both on and off the field.His leadership and on-field performance are crucial to their rebuild.

The free Agency and Trade Period Rules: A Speedy Guide

Understanding the rules governing player movement is essential for following these developments.

1. Free agency: Players with eight or more years of service are eligible for free agency and can move to any club without a trade.
2. Restricted Free Agency: Players with six to eight years of service are restricted free agents. Their original club has the right to match any offer from a rival club.
3. Trade Period: Clubs can trade players and draft picks during a designated trade period.
4. Compensation Picks: Clubs that lose free agents are often awarded compensation picks in the national draft.

historical Precedents: Notable AFL Player Movements

Looking at past player movements can provide insights into the potential outcomes of these current situations.

* Gary Ablett Jr. (Geelong to Gold Coast): A high-profile move driven by a desire for a new challenge and a leadership role.

* Lance Franklin (Hawthorn to sydney): A massive deal that significantly impacted both clubs.

* Patrick Dangerfield (Adelaide to Geelong): A move that revitalized Dangerfield’s career