Five trade targets for every AFL club: Essendon Bombers

A Blues tall, big name free agent and out-of-favour Lion make up our wish list for the Dons.

STAFF WRITER | July 10, 2023 - 5:54pm

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At the end of the 2022 season, Essendon decided to bring in just two players through the trade period. Utility midfielder Will Setterfield was added along with tall forward Sam Weideman.

This year, they're in line for a busier player movement window, but it won't just be players coming in that sees their list reshape. With both Darcy Parish and Mason Redman possibly departing the club at the season's end through free agency, replacements could be needed.

The Bombers' success so far in 2023 wasn't predicted, with a top 10 pick seemingly out of the question thanks to their impressive start under Brad SCott. The one area that they have desperately needed is key position talent at either end of the field, and with the possible departures of their two free agents, they'll have money and compensation to spend in 2023.

After a quieter trade period in 2022 for the Bombers, expect them to make some big moves prior to the 2024 season.

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5. Tom De Koning

One of the most talked about trade targets throughout the year has been Tom De Koning. The versatile tall has been linked to a move all season, with Geelong, Sydney and St Kilda reported as interested suitors. He'd be a useful inclusion at any club and would definitely aid Essendon.

The Blues tall could be a genuine forward who could occasionally rotate with Sam Draper in the ruck. At Carlton he's shown signs up forward, however, he has been played mostly as a sole ruckman when Marc Pittonet is injured.

De Koning wouldn't come cheap however, but the Dons would have the money to compete with rivals for his services.