Hawthorn are reportedly chasing a top 25 draft selection in exchange for wantaway key forward Jacob Koschitzke.
Koschitzke has requested a trade to Richmond this off-season as he eyes more senior minutes, with the Tigers needing to fill a void in their front third left by the retired Jack Riewoldt.
Unsigned for next season, the Hawks tall had turned down an offer to extend his time at Waverley in favour of a move to Richmond, where he'll look to support first-string forward Tom Lynch.
Koschitzke managed just a dozen appearances at AFL level this year under Sam Mitchell - often required in the absence of injured forward Mitch Lewis at times this year, with form playing a part in the 23-year-old's limited exposure.
Despite Koschitzke being often utilised in the VFL, the Hawks are said to be after a pick no later than early into the second round of the draft, according toย AFL.com.au.
The Tigers don't currently enter the draft until Pick 27, having traded their 2023 first-round selection last year to GWS. The Tigers are also unlikely to add to their hand over the player movement period, with contracted ruckman Ivan Soldo the only notable name potentially on the way out of Punt Road.
It's unlikely Richmond would also consider coughing up such a high selection for Koschitzke, who has played just 48 games in the brown and gold for a return of 54 goals.
The Hawks may have to lower their demands for the Albury product's exit to satisfy the Tigers.
Hawthorn are also working with the Gold Coast Suns to acquire contracted forward Mabior Chol from Carrara, with the ex-Tiger potentially valued greater than Koschitzke in trade discussions given his 44-goal season last year.
Chol wasn't able to cement his place in the Suns' side in 2023 despite his breakout season a year ago, with the Queensland club allowing the athletic tall attacker to pursue his options elsewhere.
The Hawks's own draft hand consists of Picks 3, 31 and 52, with the middle selection likely in the sights of the Suns.
Trade period opened on Monday and will run until 7:30pm (AEDT) on Wednesday, October 18.
