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AFL trade period: All the news, developments and deals from opening day

Headshot of Chris Robinson
Chris RobinsonThe West Australian
Nathan O'Driscoll and Gryan Miers could both be on the move this trade period.
Camera IconNathan O'Driscoll and Gryan Miers could both be on the move this trade period. Credit: AFL Photos

AFL: What deals will get done on the opening day of the AFL’s player swap-fest?

It’s set to be another busy period this year as clubs look to improve their lists in the early stages of the off-season.

The likes of Zak Butters, Toby Greene, Lachie Whitfield, Zach Merrett and Rowan Marshall are all set to be on the move, while at a WA level, there’s plenty of chatter around whether Jack Viney and Gryan Miers - among others - could be heading west.

Stay across all the action here!

Reporting LIVE

Positive talks on Merrett deal

Matt Rosa spoke earlier and would not guarantee a deal would get done, but it looks like there is positive progress being made for Zach Merrett.

The new deal on the table is reportedly picks 15, 25 and an upgraded third pick as per AFL.com’s Cal Twomey.

Pendlebury trade ratified

“It’s an exciting group here at the SUNS and the opportunity to bring a few different ideas and also learn from a great group of coaches and players is one I’m really looking forward to,” Pendlebury told SUNS Media.

“This side is one I’ve watched from afar and really admired. I’ve got a bit of knowledge about the industry so I’m here to play my role and help this squad continue to develop.”

More on Jaymie Graham joining the Roos

Seven’s Tom Morris said Graham will sign a three-to four-year deal.

Blues interested in Fagan

After stepping away from the Lions to be closer to his family in Melbourne, you’d think there would be plenty of Victorian clubs interested in his insight.

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More on where Miers stands

New Roos coach locked in

Away from the trade period, North Melbourne have a new coach.

Jaymie Graham is set to be unveiled as North Melbourne coach as soon as this week, with only the final details still to be ticked off before the club formalises the appointment.

Lions are also not happy with compensation picks

Brisbane got band three compo for Neale’s move to Collingwood, which will end up somewhere in the mid-40s

“We were disappointed to lose such a good player and not get great compensation for him; the pick is the pick, and we’ll move on.”

He says there have been positive talks with St Kilda over a trade for Sam Marshall.

Bombers out of Viney race

“We had some good discussions with Jack, and we’ve decided to prioritise the young mids we already have.”

Matt Rosa says multiple clubs are interested in Merrett.

“We’ve had discussions with Zach for a little bit now; it’s not a surprise there is plenty of interest in him.”

“We’re open to discussing it, but we’ve been very clear on how much we value him.”

Rosa also reveals the Bombers are interested in Bailey Banfield after he was delisted by the Dockers. Essendon received two extra rookie spots as part of an AFL care package.

“We’ll be exploring mature options, and Bailey is certainly one of those.”

Geelong ‘open’ to Miers trade

Cats list boss Andrew Mackie seemingly leaves the door open to a Gryan Miers trade should he want to leave the Cats.

“He’s of interest every year, which is a credit to him; he went overseas, he’s a much-loved player, and he loves the club.

“We’re pragmatic and open about most things, and if Gryan decided that would be the best thing for his footy, we’d be open to that.

“But that hasn’t happened so we’re dealing in hypotheticals.”

He confirms they have had cursory talks with the Eagles but nothing more.

“They’ve reached out about their interest, but there haven’t been many discussions.”

Fremantle boss David Walls speaks

He expects a quiet week, confirming they are keen to hit the draft this season.

“I don’t see a lot of change this year; we’ve got a lot of players contracted, so we’re just looking to bed down our list.”

“I don’t see any acquisitions coming over the next few days; we’re keen to hit the draft. We like the look of the draft; obviously it’s the last one before Tassie.”

He reveals talks with Nathan O’Driscoll broke down midway through the year.

“We had some chats with Nathan throughout the year that didn’t go anywhere; we’ll see what happens if he doesn’t find a home.”

He also said locking down Alex Pearce on a longer deal is a priority for next year.

“It’s something that we’ve got a timeline on, and we’ll pick them up early in the year.”

The Freo captain is signed until the end of next year, but there is expected to be strong interest from Tasmania, with him earmarked as a potential inaugural captain for the Devils.

Alex Pearce of the Dockers runs with the ball during the AFL Grand Final.
Camera IconAlex Pearce of the Dockers runs with the ball during the AFL Grand Final. Credit: Getty Images

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