The 2024 AFL Trade Period has kicked off and the Gold Coast Suns are in a prime position to influence several deals, with their highly sought-after Pick 13 potentially unlocking key trades, including Dan Houston out of Port Adelaide.
Gold Coast list manager Craig Cameron addressed various player moves and team strategies in his trade period press conference on Monday, highlighting the Suns' approach to Pick 13, as well as discussions involving Jack Lukosius, Daniel Rioli, and retired star Dustin Martin.
Regarding Pick 13, Cameron made it clear that Gold Coast aims to use the selection strategically.
"Our plan on Pick 13 at the moment is to deal with clubs that we're looking to get some players from," Cameron noted.
Multiple clubs are eyeing the pick, Cameron describing it as "pretty popular" with potential trade partners, especially as the Suns seek players who fit their immediate needs.
While they've refrained from specifying any front-runners for the selection, Gold Coast is prioritising negotiations that will strengthen its list while depleting others.
Collingwood have reportedly offered Gold Coast their wantaway rebounding defender John Noble and a future first round pick to get the Suns' Picks 13 & 23, according to SEN's Sam Edmund.
Carlton are offering a future first & future second round selection for Gold Coast's Pick 13. Both clubs are looking to gain the resources necessary to add Houston this trade period.
One of the key discussions involves forward Jack Lukosius, who recently requested a trade to Port Adelaide.
Cameron shared where the Suns' negotiations sit at the moment, stating, “We've had some really good conversations with Port. It could be done quickly, it may get tied into some of the other things as well.”
Lukosius, who has two years remaining on his contract, is seeking a return to his native South Australia, and the Suns appear open to exploring a mutually beneficial arrangement.
The Suns are also actively pursuing Richmond defender Daniel Rioli, who has requested a trade to the Gold Coast. Rioli's rebounding prowess aligns well with the Suns' needs heading into 2025, and Cameron expressed confidence in their pursuit, although he expects negotiations to take time.
"We need to bring in the players that we've talked about to get some rebound defence,” Cameron explained.
"We've had some early conversations, I think that'll take a while."
Addressing the possibility of Dustin Martin joining the Suns after his recent retirement announcement, it appears that Gold Coast will respect Martin's decision to step away from the game.
"Dustin's words last week were that he was happily retired," Cameron stated, indicating that the club has no plans to influence Martin's stance.
Still, reports of Suns coach Damien Hardwick meeting with Martin in recent weeks will ensure that the rumours remain topical, fueling further speculation about a potential last-minute return to football.
As the trade period unfolds, Gold Coast remains at the heart of high-stakes discussions, poised to shape not only their own future but potentially that of multiple AFL clubs.
The club hold the influential 13th pick of the upcoming National Draft, as well as Picks 6, 23, 29, 41, 50 and 78.