For the second time this week, the Western Bulldogs were on the end of another trade request - this time from premiership onballer Jack Macrae.
Macrae's request sees the veteran ball magnet prepare to depart Whitten Oval three years prior to the end of his contract, with his desired departure following the same request made by off-contract youngster Bailey Smith.
And much like Smith, Macrae could cost a keen suitor a first-round draft pick given his pedigree as a three-time All-Australian. There's no doubt his 2024 season has taken some shine off the product fans have come to know Macrae to be, but at his best he is one of the leading ball winners and distributors in the competition.
Macrae will be 31 next year and it'll be a mighty gamble for any club willing to cash in on the inside-outside midfield threat with high-end draft capital, but sides in the window - or at least looking to make the leap - will be sure to consider it.
We assess five clubs that could make a move for Jack Macrae...
2. Melbourne
For an off-season that was expecting to see star players potentially depart the Demons, could Melbourne turn the tables and instead strengthen their midfield group?
Coach Simon Goodwin will be hoping Clayton Oliver is back to his best in 2025, while Christian Petracca's concerns could be quelled as the club looks to fix its internal issues.
There are certainly some uncertainties at the Demons heading into 2025, so some insurance for their coming campaign could be the addition of Macrae.
The Demons will be holding onto their first-round pick, but it could be Pick 25 - which is currently owned by Adelaide - that helps get a deal done for Macrae, with that selection likely involved in a trade that sees Alex Neal-Bullen become a Crows player.
