The Western Bulldogs reportedly have competition for the services of West Coast target Tom Barrass, with Hawthorn emerging as a keen sutor for the premiership Eagle.
Despite being contracted with the Perth powerhouse until the end of the 2027 season, Barrass' name has been raised as a potential trade option over the past 12 months.
The 28-year-old was in the sights of Sydney last year but remained with the Eagles, with interest from the Dogs and Collingwood arising over the past few months to place further speculation around the key defender.
According toย 7 News'ย Mitch Cleary, the Hawks have joined the race for Barrass' signature as they look to add to their key defensive stocks this off-season.
Sam Mitchell's side are viewed as the frontrunners for St Kilda free agent Josh Battle in 2024 as they look to strengthen their rearguard after missing out on targets Ben McKay and Esava Ratugolea last year.
Given Barrass' contract status with West Coast, he would cost draft capital as opposed to a move for Battle via free agency. The Hawks currently hold Pick 8 for this year's AFL Draft, along with selections 26, 73 and 74.
Clubs are able to trade their 2025 selections and could be permitted to use 2026 selections in trade deals this year as the AFL weighs up easing player and pick movement restrictions.
The Hawks will have an advantage over the Bulldogs given the latter does not hold a first-round pick for this year's draft, however the AFL's pending permissions could still allow them to package multiple early selections for future counts.
The Bulldogs may also gain a first-round pick should they lose midfielder Bailey Smith to a rival club, with Hawthorn among those interested in the off-contract Dogs gun.
Barrass, a Western Australian, will play game 150 for the Eagles this weekend when they face rivals Fremantle at Optus Stadium on Saturday night.
The key defender was a member of West Coast's 2018 premiership side and won his first best and fairest following a career-best 2022 campaign.
