Two more members of West Coast's 2018 premiership side are said to be in the sights of rival clubs ahead of this year's trade period as the Eagles brace for a busy off-season that could see them significantly strengthen their draft hand.
Star defender Tom Barrass has already been linked with a potential move to Victoria as both Hawthorn and the Western Bulldogs show interest in the Eagles defender, who is contracted until the end of the 2027 season.
Teammates Jake Waterman and Harry Edwards have also been linked to rival clubs in recent weeks, with sides circling West Coast players of value amid a view the Perth powerhouse could be open to parting with certain senior players in favour of adding to their draft hand as they look to build for the future.
While both Waterman and Barrass have previously spoken of their desire to remain in the royal blue and gold, two more Eagles have now been linked to the exit as clubs look to snare some of the club's top line of talent.
Small forward Liam Ryan, who is contracted for the next two years, is said to be gettable in the eyes of rival clubs, perย 9 News'ย Tom Morris, who revealed on Wednesday that a longer offer from a keen suitor could "tempt" Ryan and the Eagles into parting ways.
"Victorian and non-Victorian clubs are on high alert regarding the possibility of snaring contracted West Coast premiership player Liam Ryan," Morris said.
"9 News understands Ryan has two years remaining on a deal. I've spoken to four list managers in the last 48 hours, who believe a 3+ year contract could tempt the 27-year-old.
"Rival clubs believe West Coast would consider trade approaches for pretty much any player, aside from an obvious couple, to accelerate its rebuild and bring draft picks in.
"Trading [Ryan] is not out of the question."
Veteran sharpshooter Jack Darling is also reportedly a chance of departing the Eagles prior to the end of his current deal, withย AFL.com.auย reporting the 529-goal veteran is set to garner external interest over the coming months.
The publication's report suggests Darling could look at opportunities elsewhere this off-season and potentially end his career at a second club, with sides in the market for tall forward options potentially preparing moves for the 32-year-old.
The potential exits of both Darling and Ryan could come at a time when Barrass also departs for a highly valuable return of draft picks, while the club will bid farewell to veteran midfielder Andrew Gaff at the end of the season after he announced his retirement this week.
It could mean the Eagles lose almost 700 games of AFL experience through four departures alone.
West Coast have Coby Burgiel,ย Jai Culley,ย Jamaine Jones,ย Josh Rotham,ย Zane Trew,ย Alex Witherden and the aforementioned Edwards, among others, still off-contract with three games remaining in their 2024 campaign.
