The AFL trade period is heating up, with clubs circling stars, veterans weighing up their futures, and young guns still yet to commit beyond 2026. As we approach the halfway point of May, the trade machine is already humming, with a profusion of players still out of contract. While the vast majority of names are covered without a deal yet for 2027, there is a small sector of players not listed that will be fighting to sign on, or in some cases, may retire.
In this article, we delve into the trade and contract table for all 18 clubs, examining the key players and their potential destinations. We explore the strategies and priorities of each club, from the Crows' pursuit of rival superstars to the Lions' focus on restricted free agents.
We also discuss the trade regrets, the overpaid and underpaid players, and the potential homecomings of veterans. The article provides a comprehensive overview of the trade period, offering insights and analysis from an expert perspective.
Key Takeaways:
- The AFL trade period is heating up, with clubs circling stars and veterans weighing up their futures.
- The Crows are actively pursuing rival superstars, with a focus on restricted free agents.
- The Lions are chasing star midfielder-forward Zac Bailey, a restricted free agent.
- The Blues have a monster number of players out of contract, with potential trade options.
- The Magpies are in the race for restricted free agent Ben King, but face competition from other clubs.
- The Bombers have a decent number of players locked away, but still have 14 out-of-contract names to monitor.
- Fremantle faces decisions on more than a dozen out-of-contract players, including potential homecomings of veterans.
- The Cats have been linked to star names, with a focus on restricted free agents.
- The Suns have a salary cap on the fuller side, leading to tough calls in list management.
- The Giants have a settled list, with a focus on unrestricted free agent Joel Amartey.
- The Hawks have moved on from interest in Zak Butters, targeting other players.
- The Demons are desperate to retain out-of-contract South Australian duo Tommy Sparrow and Kade Chandler.
- The Kangaroos are doing due diligence on young gun Darcy Wilson, with potential interest from clubs.
- The Power has been ruled out of acquiring Port Adelaide superstar Zak Butters, with a focus on other players.
- The Tigers are vocal in their desire to stay in the race for Butters, but remain a long shot.
- The Saints have a relatively settled list, with a squeeze of players out of contract.
- The Swans are very quiet on the trade front, with a focus on unrestricted free agent Joel Amartey.
- The Eagles could attract genuine talent this off-season, with potential homecomings of veterans.
- The Bulldogs are the outright leaders for Zak Butters' services, with a potential monster recruit for their midfield.
