Collingwood is reportedly showing serious interest in St Kilda tall Jack Hayes as they look to enhance their forward and ruck options during the AFL trade period.
Hayes, 27, recently completed a medical with the Magpies, indicating Collingwood's strong interest in the South Australian, according to 7NEWS chief AFL reporter Mitch Cleary.
With Hayes out of contract and facing an uncertain future at St Kilda, the Magpies are seizing the opportunity to add a ready-made player with proven ability to their list.
Cleary noted that Hayes is on Collingwood's radar to fulfil the key forward and ruck role that head coach Craig McRae has openly prioritised.
“He is one name to keep an eye on over the next nine days,” Cleary stated, adding that Hayes, who turns 28 next season, is entering his prime and could deliver an immediate influence on the club.
Hayes began his AFL journey as a mature-aged recruit from SANFL powerhouse Woodville-West Torrens, where he was celebrated for his versatility and consistency, even captaining the South Australian state team in 2021.
Despite his limited AFL career due to ongoing injury setbacks, Hayes made a memorable debut in Round 1 of 2022 with a standout three-goal performance against Collingwood and has demonstrated some potential as a reliable forward target.
Adding Hayes to their lineup could provide Collingwood with additional forward firepower alongside Brody Mihocek and Dan McStay, particularly as the club gears up to contend for another premiership.
Collingwood has already signed GWS' Harry Perryman as a free agent, and they remain interested in Port Adelaide's Dan Houston to add to their rebounding stocks.
A move to sign Hayes is consistent with Collingwood's aggressive approach this trade period as the club aims to stay in the premiership hunt a year on from their 2023 flag success.
They do not hold a first-round pick for the upcoming National Draft but will remain active in the weeks ahead.