Merrett wants out as Hawthorn pushes for Essendon deal
Zach Merrett seeks to leave Essendon again; Hawthorn pursuing the 31-year-old midfielder to chase a premiership.
Essendon's star midfielder Zach Merrett wants to leave the club for a second time, and Hawthorn has renewed its push to land him. President Andrew Welsh has hardened Essendon's stance, warning Hawthorn not to rush negotiations and reminding them Merrett is contracted.
Hawthorn's opening bid of picks 15 and 25 plus a future third-rounder was rejected. Merrett, now 31, wants one thing: a genuine premiership chance.
An SMH columnist argues Essendon should stop defending the negotiation and focus on rebuilding. Holding him out of stubbornness, the piece suggests, proves nothing, strong clubs make hard decisions and move on.
- 31
- Merrett's age
- Seven
- Crichton medals
- Picks 15, 25, future third-rounder
- Hawthorn's opening bid
- Andrew Welsh
- Essendon president
Why it mattersIf Essendon trades Merrett, they free up resources to rebuild around younger talent and acquire picks for future stars.
AustraliaThe trade saga grips AFL followers closely, with Essendon fans desperate for a tipping point and rival clubs watching how the Bombers handle their most decorated player.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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