Tom Barrass

Manager’s big hint on future of in-demand West Coast star: AFL trade news

“Never say never.”

Published by
Mitch Keating

The manager of contracted West Coast defender Tom Barrass has confirmed multiple clubs have shown interest in his client, who could be open to departing the Eagles as early as this year.

Barrass has emerged as a potential trade target for clubs looking to add height to their backline, with Sydney linked with the Western Australian product. Port Adelaide, Essendon, Hawthorn and Brisbane are among the club that are also likely to look toward key defenders this off-season.

West Coast's own trade plans are likely to be built on attaining young talent, with the National Draft seen as their priority pathway in doing so. Potentially wanting to add more top picks to their draft hand, the Eagles could even consider moving on experienced and valuable assets in order to secure more picks.

Barrass, while contracted until the end of 2027, has been murmured as a player that could suit that situation for West Coast, with the Swans rekindling interest in the premiership Eagle following previous attempts to lure him east.

WATCH: WEST COAST'S POTENTIAL PLANS FOR PICK 1 

His manager, Nick Gieschen, when questioned on Barrass' future on SEN on Friday, with the Connors Sports agent not ruling out a move for the West Coast star. Gieschen said there could be a chance Barrass leaves the Eagles but believes his client is more likely to stay in the blue and gold.

"You never say never. But for now, he's very settled in Perth," Gieschen said when asked if Barrass would be open to leaving West Coast. "Right now, I'd say no. But again, we'll see what happens.

"All I can say is that right now he's really committed just to seeing it through with West Coast."

Gieschen confirmed he had been contacted by multiple clubs in regard to Barrass' services, with his value and experience sought after by rival sides.

"Yeah a few (clubs have shown interest) but that's not uncommon. You get calls from a lot of clubs about a lot of players," he said.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JULY 17: Tom Barrass of the Eagles in action during the round 18 AFL match between the Hawthorn Hawks and the West Coast Eagles at Melbourne Cricket Ground on July 17, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Jonathan DiMaggio/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

"I think because of the position that West Coast have been in there's talk of rebuilding and what they do and which players on their list might have currency.

"He's a player that comes up because he probably fits that age and currency point of view, but Tom's got four years to run (on his contract)."

Sydney, seen as the leading suitor for Barrass, currently holds Pick 5 for this year's National Draft, as well as two second-round selections - their own and Hawthorn's - to hold three selections in the top 24.

Published by
Mitch Keating