The Greater Western Sydney Giants have turned down a trade proposal from the Western Bulldogs for contracted midfielder Xavier O'Halloran, maintaining their stance on retaining contracted players ahead of the 2025 AFL season.
Despite O'Halloran's reported interest in joining the Bulldogs, negotiations have stalled as the Giants aim to preserve their roster ahead of several likely departures.
O'Halloran, who has one year remaining on his contract, has attracted attention from the Bulldogs, whose facilities are close to his Victorian roots.
As the club faces potential exits of midfielders like Bailey Smith, Jack Macrae, and Caleb Daniel, O'Halloran could have provided much-needed midfield depth.
However, GWS football boss Jason McCartney remains firm, stating last week, โWe see [O'Halloran] staying,โ and describing him as integral to the team's structure for next season via Trade Radio.
The Giants have already seen players Harry Perryman and Isaac Cumming leave for Collingwood and Adelaide, respectively, through free agency, while uncontracted forward James Peatling has also requested a trade to Adelaide.
However, the club recently secured Conor Stone until 2026, after he declined interest from Essendon, signalling the Giants' commitment to retaining their contracted talent. The Giants have also shown strong interest in acquiring Essendon's Jake Stringer as they continue to shape their squad for 2025.
O'Halloran, 24, has played 67 games for the Giants since being drafted with Pick 22 in 2018, many of which were as a substitute.
This season, he played a career-high 19 matches but struggled to secure regular midfield minutes amongst GWS's highly competitive engine room.
