Multiple clubs are expected to show some level of interest in contracted GWS tall Wade Derksen, who looming as "a bit of a watch" ahead of the 2024 AFL trade period as clubs look to bolster their key position stocks.
Derksen is yet to break through for an AFL debut in his two years with the Giants, who he joined as the fifth overall selection of the 2022 Mid-Season Draft.
Selected out of Peel Thunder in the WAFL, Derksen was recruited as an athletic forward who can pinch hit in the ruck.
Derksen booted 11 goals in his nine matches at VFL level across the back-half of his first year with GWS, while last year he finished fifth for goals in the league with 35 from 18 games.
This season, Dersken has transitioned to a defensive role for the Giants' reserves, averaging 19.8 disposals and 7.3 marks.
His versatility and place on the outskirts of the Giants' senior side could attract clubs keen to add height to either end of the side this coming off-season
According toย AFL.com.au'sย Cal Twomey, clubs are keeping tabs on Derksen's situation in New South Wales and could be prepared to move for the swingman.
"One clubs are keeping a bit of an eye on is Wade Derksen," Twomey said on Gettable.
"He's been playing as a defender for the Giants, can kick it a mile and can play at both ends of the ground.
"I think there's real interest in him out there. He's a bit of a watch, I think there'll be a couple of clubs who look at him closely at the end of the year."
Derksen is signed with the Giants until the end of the 2025 season, meaning any interested suitor would need to trade for the 194cm talent.
Clubs such as Adelaide, Collingwood, Geelong and Melbourne might be among the sides chasing key forward assets this year.
The market for key defenders is busy, with Derksen's teammate Nick Haynes a potential name of interest given his status as free agency.
