A West Coast swingman has reportedly back-flipped on exploring a trade from the Eagles, instead deciding to re-sign with the Lathlain club.
Key-position forward Jake Waterman was understood to have decided on examining his trade options from the Eagles this off-season before West Coast's list bosses reportedly came back to the 25-year-old with a more attractive offer.
As a result, Waterman has reportedly signed a two-year contract extension with the Eagles, tying his future to Lathlain until at least the end of the 2025 season.
According to The West reporter Mitch Woodcock on Sunday afternoon, the Claremont product was preparing to explore this year's trade market before backtracking and accepting West Coast's revised deal.
Initially, it was reported that 'long-running' negotiations between Waterman and the Eagles had broken down.
West Coast forward Jake Waterman set to test the trade market after negotiations broke down this week. Has at least four clubs interested. #AFLhttps://t.co/AdTs10sp9T
— Mitchell Woodcock (@Mitch_Woodcock) September 24, 2023
However, a short time later, the two parties were thought to have reconciled, coming together and agreeing on a medium-term extension for the developing tall.
Incredible how quick things move. The Eagles have come back with a better offer this afternoon and Waterman has agreed to re-sign until the end of 2025. #AFL https://t.co/3bl3TOCHuc
— Mitchell Woodcock (@Mitch_Woodcock) September 24, 2023
Waterman's apparent extension has yet to be officially announced by the Eagles.
Prior to the opening of this year's player exchange window on October 9, the Eagles delisted six players; midfielders Greg Clark, Connor West, and Sam Petrevski-Seton, defender Luke Foley, and utilities Xavier O'Neill and Isiah Winder.
Veterans Luke Shuey, Shannon Hurn, and Nic Naitanui had previously announced their retirements at the conclusion of the Eagles' 2023 campaign.
