2024 Trade News & Rumours

DONE DEAL: Blockbuster deal complete to send Bulldogs star to Geelong

Four clubs have agreed on a late mega-trade, despite the possibility Smith could’ve walked to the pre-season draft.

Published by
Callum Farquhar

Bulldog Bailey Smith's wish has been granted, with the 23-year-old traded to the Geelong Cats in a late four-club mega trade involving three players and three picks.

Geelong have given up picks 17 and 38 in the deal, while gaining Smith and pick 45.

The deal comes after speculation an agreement may not have occurred, leaving Smith without a contract and set to enter the pre-season draft.

The injured midfielder has been sidelined in 2024 after suffering an ACL injury during the pre-season last December, but has been long rumoured to leave Whitten Oval. Smith suffered a form slump in 2023 as he was thrown across the ground, playing on the wing and half-forward despite his preferred position at the centre circle.

Smith will bolster Geelong's midfield significantly as the Cats once again look poised to make a list capable of another September run in 2025. Smith will feature alongside Patrick Dangerfield and Max Holmes, providing additional flair and youth to Geelong's side.

The 103-game star is the second player to join the Cats this off-season, following Jack Martin who joined from Carlton through free agency, whilst being one of three Bulldogs to leave this off-season, following in the footsteps of Jack Macrae and Caleb Daniel.

Geelong's first-round pick is now in the Bulldogs hand, providing Sam Power with his earliest selection for this year's monster draft.

Published by
Callum Farquhar