Essendon have set their sights on a Mabior Chol, with the tall Tiger entering this off-season as an unrestricted free-agent.
Mitch Cleary has told AFL.com.au that the Bombers have 'doubled down' on their interest for the 24-year-old Chol, who wouldn't cost a single pick if lured.
Essendon are currently in the market for a tall-forward target to replace retiring veteran Cale Hooker and to support young talls Harrison Jones and Peter Wright. Standing at 200cm, Chol is one of the few key-forward/ruck options considered gettable during this year's trade period.
Chol likely attracted the eye of Essendon list manager Adrian Dodoro during this year's Dreamtime game, putting together a career-high 19 disposals and 19 hitouts in arguably his best match for the Tigers.
Despite promising signs in 2021, the athletic tall has struggled for consistency during his career at the Tigers. Chol has managed only 31 games since 2016 and missed out onย selection for Richmond's three premiership sides.
The 24-year-old qualifies for free-agency after Richmond delisted and re-rookied him at the end of the 2018.
Essendon aren't the only club in the race for the Tiger, with Gold Coast among the other suitors.
Chol is one of 77 free agents up for grabs this off-season.
Meanwhile, St. Kilda swingman Josh Battle is reportedly weighing up his future at the club.
The 22-year-old's name has been raised in trade talks by rival clubs who now believe Battle could be up for grabs.
Since getting drafted at pick 39 in 2016, Battle has managed 56 games for the Saints. Standing at 193cm, the youngster has been used both as a key-forward and key-defender during his time at the club.
A foot injury at training derailed the end to Battle's 2021 season, previously playing the first 14 games before spending two weeks as a medical-sub.
The emergence of forward Cooper Sharman and key defender Ben Highmore has now set the 22-year-old a fight for his spot in the side.
Despite being contracted with the Saints until 2022, Battle's management have spoken to several rival clubs to gauge interest for the youngster.
There were reportedly no talks of a departure from the Saints during Battle's exit interview completed earlier this week.
With Battle still under contract until next season, a move elsewhere will require St. Kilda agreeing to a trade.
