Melbourne midfielder James Harmes has again found himself in a position to potentially be on the move after struggling to break into the senior side permanently in 2023.
Last year, Harmes had reportedly met with Essendon after receiving similar conditions to this season through a lack of playing time and was reported earlier this season to potentially be on the move come season's end. For Melbourne, Harmes' contract doesn't expire until the end of the 2024 season, which he signed back in 2019.
Harmes's agent Tim Hazell made an appearance on AFL.com.au's Gettable speaking about the possibility of a move for Harmes as he continues to miss time in the seniors while dominating VFL.
"It's been a really challenging year for Harmes, he's had a bit of illness, a bit of form but he's contracted for '24, there was some conversation last year but that was shut down early," Hazell said.
"He's really just focussed on playing football and I know that's a little bit cliche but he wants to crack back into the side and go deep with Melbourne, he wants another premiership, he tasted it and wants it again.
"With Harmes I'm really not too sure, at the moment he's really focussed and the dialogue has been really transparent and those conversations will continue the next couple weeks."
Hazell revealed that other clubs have been in contact with him regarding the services of Harmes, but no club has been named, while Hazell continued to state that Harmes is purely focused on the upcoming final series for Melbourne and how he can play a role in it.
"Definitely have had conversations with other clubs because he dominates VFL," Hazell said. "He's a star, he's too good.
"Clubs are asking where he's at but right now his head is fully invested in the next couple weeks at Melbourne."
Harmes has featured in nine games in 2023 and averages 12.3 disposals, 3.4 tackles and 1.8 clearances in the AFL. But in the VFL averages 29.4 disposals and 4.5 tackles. His 2023 AFL figures are the second lowest in his career with the lowest being his debut year.
