For footballing fanatics, the annual trade period is like Christmas - only with recycled toys.

The exchanged athletes may not come brand new in the box or with all of their working parts, but with careers that have already commenced and with runs on the board at previous clubs, most are known quantities.

Many of the names that will find themselves at new homes in 2021 have expressed a desire for a new start. Whilst others have been shopped and shipped against their wishes.

Irrespective of how they've found themselves on the verge of a filling a new locker and guernsey, they have been secured by their latest club to fill a need.

Some players on this list may not be the extravagant of those swapped across the last fortnight. However, they are those best equipped to have their new fans beaming from the get-go.

2. Zac Williams

Despite crossing to Carlton on a paycheck that will make old-timers wince, Zac Williams brings with him an arsenal that the Blues have lacked for well over a decade.

In his 8 seasons in Sydney's west, the 26-year-old averaged 19.5 disposals, nearly three rebound fifties and less than two clangers a game.

This numbers tell us one thing โ€“ Williams doesn't just find the ball; he knows how to use it.

With the depressing news that Carlton skipper and half back flanker Sam Docherty faces time on the sideline with a malignant tumour, both Williams and his new teammate Adam Saad are more than adept replacements for the position.

However, it is the Narrandera product's sky-high ceiling as a midfielder that should have Carlton fans salivating.

Although Williams' contested possession and clearance averages appear low (6.8 and 1.8 respectively) expect to see him alongside Carlton's centrepiece Patrick Cripps in the middle next season.

Should Williams elevate his game by lifting his clearance numbers, expect Carlton's youthful forward line to be receiving lace out service.

This may seem speculative on some level, but if the former Giant was listed on the Australian stock exchange, I'd suggest buying up big now for a hefty yield later.