Delisted St Kilda defender Ben Paton's AFL dream might not be over yet, with reports indicating that GWS and Sydney are showing an interest in the backman.
It was understood that the Giants met with Paton recently in the possibility that he might be used to bolster their defensive stocks after losing the likes of Harry Perryman (Collingwood), Isaac Cumming (Adelaide) and Nick Haynes (Carlton).
And now, according toย Channel 9's Tom Morris, the Swans have entered the race for his services.
Paton poses as a replacement for Harry Cunningham and Dane Rampe at Sydney, with the pair nearing retirement.
The former Pick 46 was officially delisted by the Saints earlier this week and could be scooped up over the next seven days as a delisted free agent, following in the footsteps of former teammate Tim Membrey, who joined Collingwood.
SEE MORE: State of play - Delisted free agency, every player available, landing spots, re-rookie list
Former @stkildafc defender Ben Paton hasnโt just garnered interest from GWS, heโs also met with Sydney. A bit to play out but the Swans have an eye on him. @FootyonNine @9NewsMelb @traderadio
— Tom Morris (@tommorris32) November 1, 2024
Clubs - and players - have until November 8 to make a decision on the futures of any delisted free agents before the period closes.
However, axed players do have the opportunity to potentially be called to train with clubs throughout the pre-season in the hope of securing a spot on the list through the Supplemental Selection Period.
Paton played 55 games for St Kilda and quickly established himself as one of the premier small defenders in the league in 2020 and 2022.
However, both injury and form have limited the 26-year-old to 16 games in the past two seasons.
