Speculation of a move involving Clayton Oliver continues to swirl the AFL news cycle, despite a plethora of factors that would typically repel rival clubs.
The 26-year-old is battling a form slump of the highest order, playing his career worst season at an age where he should be at the peak of his powers. Barring his rookie season, Oliver's disposal, mark, goal, tackle and clearance averages are all at a career-low.
He is just one season into a monster deal, spanning seven seasons north of $1 million, a contract that many believe to be a major problem for the Demons amid a period of turmoil.
He may be moving past the off-field issues that soured his reputation over the off-season, but his behavioural concerns remain a factor.
Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
Despite this,ย Herald Sunย writer Jay Clark believes clubs at least three clubs may still "dangle the carrot" to lure Oliver out of Melbourne, even hinting at a rival who could particularly benefit from a bolstered in & under profile.
"I've spoken to three clubs over the last 48 hours, they are all watching this situation so closely," Clark told the Midweek Tackle.
"Oliver might be happy at Melbourne and everything you hear out of Simon Goodwin's month suggests they are loving Oliver, but there are clubs skirting around the edges.
"Tell me Oliver isn't absolutely perfect for (Geelong), their contested possession rating and clearances have dropped, they don't have that big-bodied midfielder. If this takes a turn, there will be clubs doing their due diligence, because you've got to be in a position to know what's going on in the background."
However, separate reports around the club suggest that both parties are committed to the long-term deal, and that Oliver is "actually happier than he's been in quite some time."
Herald Sun reporter Glenn McFarlane said that the trade rumours are dying down.
"Talk of a trade to a new club at the end of the year is effectively dead in the water. These things can change, but at the moment he's quite happy with where he's at," McFarlane said.
"Things can turn, but at the moment things are good."
