The likes of Charlie Curnow, Zach Merrett and Christian Petracca have dominated the AFL trade headlines in recent weeks — and understandably so.
But beyond the superstars looking for a change in scenery, an out-of-favour pair have been linked to Carlton among other potential moves.
In the latest episode of the Midweek Tackle digital-only show ‘Tackle The Headline’, panellists Lauren Wood, Corbin Middlemas and Jon Ralph break down the four trade targets who are flying under the radar this off-season.
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JUDD MCVEE (MELBOURNE)
Linked to: Fremantle, West Coast
Jon Ralph says: “I still think he can stay now. He was unsure if he could play as that lockdown defender who plays on really quality targets — and just doesn’t get to express himself. I think he wants to let the free flag fly! He wants to play as a more attacking half-back, and I think if you’re Steven King … you promise him the world.
“I think the fact they’ve got a young, progressive, exciting coach with great relationships, I would hope that would mean he would stay at Melbourne.”
CAMPBELL CHESSER (WEST COAST)
Linked to: Carlton
Corbin Middelmas says: “A pick No.14 to the West Coast Eagles; he obviously went there at the worst time in the club’s history — they’ve never been poorer than they have been at the moment.”
“You don’t accidentally go pick No.14, so a lot of guys identified him as a top guy. Even looking at Harley (Reid’s) year this year compared to last year — when you have big bodies and guys like Elliot Yeo and support around you in the midfield, we saw what these young guys where able to do. Imagine Campbell Chesser if he can get a bit of support, and doesn’t have to be one of the main guys in a young developing midfield. I think he’ll thrive in a different environment.”
Ralph: “It’s a huge loss for them. You don’t want to give up your first-round picks, including those you put so much time into — and then all of a sudden walk away. They’d want something really good back to attack the draft; maybe with a local, or even a ready-made player.”
BUKU KHAMIS (WESTERN BULLDOGS)*
Linked to: Carlton
Middlemas says: “He would be a great swingman. He’d absolutely be a valuable asset for any club in the competition, so I can understand why there’s a lot of interest in him. Hard and soul western suburbs guy, so I can imagine it’d take a bit to pull him away from the ‘Kennel’. But gee, I’d be interested if I was a rival club.”
*contracted until the end of 2026
LIAM JONES (WESTERN BULLDOGS)
Linked to: TBD
Lauren Wood says: “We’re both making the same face here Corbin … it’s one (decision) of great hesitation.”
Middlemas: “It depends on how your list spots are going. He’s good insurance, but I’m not sure he’d be in your starting 22.”
Wood: “A nice back-up.”