Nakia Cockatoo

AFL trade news: Geelong decline Brisbane’s first offer for midfielder

The Cats and Lions are at a crossroads over negotiations for the 24-year-old.

Published by
Mitch Keating

Brisbane and Geelong are at a crossroads over negotiations for Nakia Cockatoo to arrive in Queensland, with the Cats asking for more than pick 53, per Fox Footy's Tom Morris.

The Lions don't hold any picks between 19 and 53 as they plan to hold late selections for academy products in the upcoming draft.

Negotiations have progressed between Geelong and Brisbane to start this week. However, Cats list manager Stephen Wells asking for more than the third-round selection on offer.

The Lions don't believe the former No.10 draft pick is worthy of a first-round selection, leaving both clubs at a standstill.

Speaking on AFL Trade Radio, Wells said Cockatoo had declared his desire to be a Brisbane player in 2021.

“Nakia is out of contract – although we’ve offered him a new contract – we’ll be happy for Nakia to stay at our club,” Wells said.

“But at the moment he has expressed a desire to try and get to Brisbane if he can, but he understands if a deal’s not done (then) he’s got a home here in Geelong and we hope for a change of luck with his injuries.

“Whenever Nakia has played for us he’s been exciting, and I think he’s a difference maker as a player. If he does get his body right, he will make a big difference to hopefully Geelong.”

Published by
Mitch Keating