West Coast Eagles star Tim Kelly is reportedly considering his future at the club, with speculation growing that he may be open to a move once his current contract expires at the end of 2025.
Kelly, who has been a key player for the Eagles since his high-profile trade from Geelong in 2019, is said to be keeping his options open as the next AFL trade period approaches.
According to reports from SEN's Sam Edmund, there is a “reasonable chance” that Kelly could make a surprise switch to cross-town rivals Fremantle.
Edmund suggested on AFL Trade Radio that Kelly, who still has one year left on his contract, may be open to a trade this season.
“There's a chance Tim Kelly could be traded in this trade period,” Edmund said.
“I reckon there's a chance he could end up at the Fremantle Dockers.”
Edmund's comments follow a report by Channel 7 Perth's Ryan Daniels, who earlier indicated that Kelly is a “player to watch” over the next 12 months and that he is likely to consider options beyond the West Coast.
Daniels' report has added fuel to the growing speculation surrounding the midfielder's future in the AFL.
Kelly, 30, has been a crucial part of the Eagles' lineup since his trade from Geelong, where he had an All-Australian selection in 2019. He signed a six-year contract with West Coast in 2019, which is set to expire at the end of 2025.
However, with the Eagles undergoing significant changes, including the recent appointment of Andrew McQualter as their new head coach, Kelly may be looking to weigh his options.
Speaking on the potential benefits of a move, Edmund noted that a trade could be mutually advantageous for both clubs.
“Could this be a win-win? This is a guy who is on a big-money deal… A new coach, a new perspective, resetting, a new list manager as well. Maybe it's a win-win,” Edmund remarked.
While Fremantle could be an option, trade radio co-host Kane Cornes expressed caution. Cornes suggested that while Kelly would be a solid addition, Fremantle should focus on securing Sydney's Chad Warner next year.
“Tim Kelly is a nice-to-have (player), but he's not a difference-maker with the way that he uses the football and how much he burns the ball,” Cornes said, urging the Dockers to consider their long-term strategy.
Kelly's potential departure would mark a significant change for West Coast, especially after a challenging 2023 season.
Despite winning the club's John Worsfold Medal as the best and fairest player, Kelly dealt with a lingering knee injury throughout the year, which impacted his consistency. In a recent interview with The West Australian, Kelly admitted it had been one of the tougher seasons of his career.
As the trade period approaches, all eyes will be on Tim Kelly's next move. While nothing is confirmed, the possibility of a significant cross-town shift to Fremantle has already captured the attention of AFL fans and pundits alike.
Kelly's manager, Anthony Van Der Wielen has since clarified the intent of his client in a statement.
"Tim Kelly is completely committed to the West Coast Eagles," he said.
"I spoke with him at length just yesterday and can confirm he is very excited about what lies ahead under the guidance of new coach Andrew McQualter.
"He is currently contracted up until the end of this season (2025), and I see no reason why he wouldn't remain with the club beyond that if they wish to retain him.
"We are open to discussing this with the list management team anytime they wish to do so."