2024 Trade News & Rumours

Out-of-favour Dog on clubs’ radar: AFL trade news

Is it time for a fresh start?

Published by
Aidan Cellini

Out-of-favour Western Bulldogs midfielder Riley Garcia has had interest expressed from Port Adelaide and West Coast.

Garcia is yet to extend beyond 2024 and his form in the VFL demands time at the elite level, despite coach Luke Beveridge unable to find a place for him in the side.

The 23-year-old has featured in nine games, including being the unused sub during Round 18's win against Carlton.

Garcia responded by dominating in the VFL the following day, recording 34 disposals, 17 tackles and two goals and has averaged 32 disposals and eight clearances for Footscray this year.

However, the Swan Districts product has siphoned interest from his home state, according to AFL Media's Josh Gabelich.

A move to the Eagles would be a comfy fit for both parties, with Garcia immediately adding some much-needed midfield depth to the rebuilding side whilst being in the correct age bracket.

However, the same can't be said for the Power, who are littered with midfield stars including Connor Rozee, Zak Butters and Jason Horne-Francis.

It has forced players like 2021 Brownlow medallist Ollie Wines to play on the wing whilst Willem Drew, Travis Boak and Jackson Mead have all featured in other areas of the ground.

The Bulldogs are likely to prioritise the signatures of Tim English and Buku Khamis while veteran defenders Jason Johannisen and Taylor Duryea both come out of contract at season's end.

Planning will also need to go into 2025 as captain Marcus Bontempelli will be looking for a new deal, as will Sam Darcy, Tom Liberatore, Ed Richards, Adam Treloar and Laitham Vandermeer.

Published by
Aidan Cellini