The ever-presents in the top echelon of the AFL ladder, Geelong have once again quietened doubters this season to flex their muscles as one of the sides to beat in 2022.
Despite a shaky start to the season, the Cats have won their last eight on the bounce and have claimed the top spot heading into the final five rounds of the season.
Regardless of their much-talked-about list age, Chris Scott's side has implemented faster ball movement in 2022 and looks set for another top-four finish.
The Cats look set to be players once again this off-season, with plenty of stars being linked to GMHBA Stadium in recent weeks as they chase ready-made talent to extend their premiership window.
While not featuring on this list, the Cats have also been linked to stars such as Angus Brayshaw, Tim Taranto and Jacob Hopper as potential recruits.
However, in no particular order, here are five players that Geelong could chase at the season's end.
TRADE TARGETS: ADELAIDE, BRISBANE, CARLTON, COLLINGWOOD, ESSENDON, FREMANTLE
4. Jordan De Goey
A controversial figure of the league, Jordan De Goey's time at the Magpies seems likely to come to an end this year after a string of off-field incidents.
The 26-year-old is undoubtedly one of the most talented players in the league at his peak, which will entice some sides to sniff around De Goey's availability this off-season.
A restricted free agent, De Goey is reportedly the target for both the Saints and the Cats this year, and Geelong could lure the forward-turned-midfielder to GMHBA Stadium.
Collingwood has the ability to match any deal offered to De Goey in the free agency period but given they took a new deal off the table a few weeks ago, it would appear unlikely they would do so.
The Cats have a great culture and their ability to turn around players' troubled careers is an area that could appeal to De Goey should he look to reinvent himself.
Most recently, Tyson Stengle has become one of the most dangerous small forwards in the competition in 2022 after signing at Geelong as a delisted free agent prior to this season.
While at Adelaide, Stengle had off-field issues that resulted in his departure and his career looked at a cross-roads before a spectacular season in the SANFL caught the attention of Geelong.
Geelong is also keen to win and there's no doubt De Goey's talents could continue their premiership push in coming seasons.
With Dangerfield's output dropping off in recent seasons, De Goey's goalkicking ability from the midfield is an area the Cats lack. A boost to their scoring power could be enough for the Cats to offer De Goey a deal this year.
Geelong was also keen on De Goey heading into the 2014 National Draft, so they obviously like what he possesses.
While the Saints and Cats will continue to monitor De Goey before making any serious moves for him, a move could be a win-win for both parties.
