Underutilised Demons forward Toby Bedford has told Melbourne's list management team to make him a Giant during the trade period.
With the ilk of Kysaiah Pickett, Charlie Spargo, Jake Melksham and Alex Neal-Bullen all preferred as offensive options by head coach Simon Goodwin, Bedford's opportunities within forward 50 have proven few and far between.
Bedford laced the boots on 16 occasions throughout the 2022 season, however, the 22-year-old failed to see action in eight fixtures, instead fulfilling the duties of medical sub.
As reported byย 7News' Mitch Cleary, the Academy selection has requested a trade to GWS after meeting with Giants officials last week.
Though Bedford is said to have a three-year deal to remain a Demon available to him, the ability to replace outgoing Giant Bobby Hill in charcoal and orange appears a prospect too strong to refuse.
Melbourne's head of recruiting Tim Lamb confirmed Bedford's desire to head north on Sunday, expressing that conversations with the Giants would commence imminently.
โWhile we are disappointed that we will be losing Toby, we understand and respect his decision to pursue further opportunities,โ Lamb expressed in a club statement.
โWe will now work with the GWS Giants to facilitate a suitable trade.
โWe thank Toby for his contribution and commitment to the club over a number of years.โ
Essendon also held a desire to lure Bedford across town, with the Dons said to be keen to draw further forward talents through their door.
The Dandenong Stingrays product will spend the 2023 season and beyond at the feet of another former Demon in Jesse Hogan, as well as alongside perennial threat and Giants' leader, Toby Greene.
Bedford will depart AAMI Park after four seasons, 18 games and nine goals in the red and the blue.
The Melbourne Grammar graduate joined Melbourne with the 75th pick of the 2018 National Draft after rival clubs failed to make a bid for his services.
At present, GWS holds an arsenal including picks 3, 21, 40, 58, 60 and 76 in an effort to land the livewire.
