AFL Trade Period: Blakey Chase Heats Up as Geelong Secures Marshall Deal

The AFL trade period is heating up, with several clubs vying for top talent. Geelong has secured a deal for St Kilda's Rowan Marshall, but the Cats' interest in Sydney's Nick Blakey remains uncertain.

Geelong receives Rowan Marshall and a 2028 third-round pick, while St Kilda receives pick 14. This deal has been in the works for over a year and significantly impacts the Cats' draft hand.

Nick Blakey Chase Intensifies

The Swans star is in high demand, with several clubs interested in acquiring him. However, Sydney can potentially halt the speculation by reaffirming Blakey's commitment to the club.

"Swans can put a halt to all the Blakey speculation by saying, ‘listen Nick, you’ve got 5 yrs left on your contract and you owe us - the club, the members and fans - after undermining a real opportunity to win a premiership. Pull your head in and get back to work.’"

Despite this, reports suggest that both parties are keen to move forward with a potential deal. The process may not drag on until the wire, with Blakey's decision expected to prompt swift action.

"I actually don't feel like this is one of those deals that will go down to the wire. I think once Blakey decides where he wants to play, unless he's adamant on Geelong, then I'd imagine things move fairly quickly."

Mega Deal in the Works?

There are rumors of a massive seven-club deal centered around Zak Butters, potentially involving Zane Duursma. Port Adelaide is known for its creative deal-making, often pulling off complex trades.

"Port Adelaide LOVE a mega-deal! Are they the mega-deal kings? Think 2004 - Houston out for Lukosius, Richards and Atkins plus picks that later landed them Joe Berry, Jack Whitlock and Christian Moraes. What are they cooking up this time for next year?!"

Essendon Confirms Interest in Nick Blakey

Essendon list manager Matt Rosa discussed the Bombers' interest in Nick Blakey on Trade Radio:

"We have discussed it internally. There's a really strong relationship there with Spike [new coach Mark McVeigh] and John [Longmire]. Those discussions will continue. We haven't had an indication from Nick's management yet that he's looking to leave. We haven't met with him, and we haven't got a time teed up."

"You have to weigh it all up when A-grade talent becomes available. Those discussions will continue, but it is a collaborative approach."

The Bombers are unlikely to trade pick one at this stage, and they are excited about the names on their whiteboard. They have also brought in Jack Bowes, who brings versatility to the team.

North Melbourne Makes a Move for Blakey

Reports suggest that North Melbourne is making a move for Nick Blakey. The Kangaroos are one of the teams that could realistically do a deal for Blakey and have him interested in joining.