Essendon defender Massimo D'Ambrosio has reportedly requested a trade to Hawthorn ahead of this year's exchange window.
The young back flanker has played 16 games since joining the Bombers through the 2022 Mid-Season Draft, where he was taken with the third overall selection out of Point Cook and the Western Jets.
D'Ambrosio made his debut shortly after joining Essendon, with his maiden appearance coming in Round 14 last year against St Kilda before the 20-year-old played a further seven games to loom as a key piece in the club's plans for the future.
He would return to the senior side in Round 2 of this year but would fall in and out of the side, with his last five appearances all coming before Round 14 and would either be as the starting sub or subbed out of the game.
With his contract coming to an end this year, D'Ambrosio's future remained uncertain despite his impressive, yet short, time in the red and black.
Now, according toย AFL.com.au'sย Cal Twomey, the former Richmond VFL player has requested a move to Hawthorn.
The publication's report suggests Essendon had offered D'Ambrosio a one-year extension, however Hawthorn's bid will tie the emerging backman to the brown and gold on a longer deal.
The Hawks currently hold draft selections 3, 30, 49 and 78 for this year's count as well as their suite of 2024 selections.
Hawthorn are likely to add to their draft hand as forward pair Tyler Brockman and Jacob Koschitzke seek moves away from Waverley, hoping to land in Western Australia and Richmond respectively.
Neither Essendon nor Hawthorn have spoken on D'Ambrosio's reported request.
