Trade Whispers: UNCERTAIN FUTURES FOR PIES DUO AMID RIVAL INTEREST, $1m GIANT MOVE
The futures of two young players from Collingwood are in question as the season comes to a close.
At the same time, Carlton is reportedly considering a bid for a veteran from GWS this off-season.
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UNCERTAIN FUTURES FOR PIES DUO AMID RIVAL INTEREST
Collingwood players Finlay Macrae and Reef McInnes are currently facing trade rumors.
Despite initial excitement in pre-season, Macrae, the overlooked midfielder, has had a disappointing year, appearing in just eight senior games.
Meanwhile, McInnes has transitioned to defense at the reserves level but has played only nine AFL matches in 2024.
Although 22-year-old Macrae is signed for another season, there’s “some interest” from rival clubs looking to recruit him at the end of the season.
“He’s in a bit of a tricky situation because he’s still putting up impressive numbers in the VFL. Several rival teams are closely monitoring the two high-profile draft picks from Collingwood from a few years back,” said Herald Sun journalist Glenn McFarlane on Fox Footy’s Midweek Tackle.
“Both Macrae and McInnes have only managed 20 games between them over four seasons.
“While Macrae is under contract for next year, McInnes is not, and several clubs are currently inquiring about him since he’s playing in defense in the VFL.”
Both players were selected in the 2020 national draft, with Macrae picked at No. 19 and McInnes at No. 23.
Concluding on Macrae, McFarlane noted: “There’s some interest, albeit limited for now, but he could shift that with a strong finish to the season.”
GWS VETERAN SET TO JOIN CARLTON
With ongoing concerns about their defensive capabilities, Carlton is expected to acquire an experienced veteran defender.
GWS player Nick Haynes, 32 and in his 13th season, is seen as a strong candidate to play for the Blues next year.
“This is what insiders are indicating; Nick Haynes will be at Carlton next season,” said Herald Sun journalist Jay Clark on Fox Footy’s Midweek Tackle.
He also mentioned that St Kilda could target Haynes if they lose Josh Battle to Hawthorn, although the Saints remain optimistic about retaining Battle on a five-year deal.
“However, with Carlton facing defensive challenges, Haynes’ knowledge in aerial contests would be a significant asset,” Clark noted.
Clark highlighted that Haynes has a lucrative, back-ended contract expiring at the end of this year.
“He’s been earning substantial sums at GWS, with the last two years bringing in over a million dollars annually, which means he’s enjoyed a high salary recently,” he added.
“While he’s been well-compensated and taken care of, he’s now aiming for a premiership, and with GWS’ solid backline, he’s effectively surplus to requirements and playing in the VFL. It makes perfect sense for him to consider IKON Park.”
As an unrestricted free agent this season, Haynes is free to join any club of his choice at the end of the season.