North Melbourne are said to be interested in contracted Western Bulldogs flanker Caleb Daniel, with the Kangaroos "in a strong position" to secure the premiership player should he look to leave the Kennel.
Daniel is contracted at Whitten Oval until the end of 2026, but his future has been speculated on after the 28-year-old fell out of favour under coach Luke Beveridge this year.
The small-framed utility, who is a best and fairest winner at the Bulldogs, played 16 games this season but was either subbed into or out of a game in half of his appearances at AFL level. Daniel featured in the VFL on eight occasions in 2024.
With midfield pair Bailey Smith and Jack Macrae seeking moves elsewhere this off-season, Daniel too is reportedly "assessing his options" as he potentially looks for a more secure role in the top flight.
According to AFL.com.au' Cal Twomey, Daniel has interest from the Kangaroos, who are viewed as a likely landing spot for the one-time All-Australian in the chance he does seek a trade.
"Daniel is assessing his options. The Dogs are aware of this, he's been considering whether he does move or whether he does stay at the club, where he's got two years to go on his contract," Twomey told Gettable.
"North Melbourne has interest in Daniel, and I think if he leaves the Dogs they're in a strong position to be the club of choice.
"He still needs to decide whether he does want to leave the Western Bulldogs, he's got a lot of close connections there.
"[North Melbourne] want to grab someone in the back half, Caleb Daniel is someone they do have their eyes on."
The Kangaroos have selections 2, 22, 40, 58 and 64 for this year's AFL Draft and are set to acquire West Coast forward Jack Darling in a deal next month.
One of their two later selections could be enough to satisfy the Eagles in a trade deal, while an earlier pick might be needed in any move for Daniel, who turned 28 in July.
North Melbourne are also said to be in the market for Sydney veteran Luke Parker, who is another player under contract for the 2025 season.
Port Adelaide's Daniel Houston has been linked to a potential Arden Street switch after requesting a trade to Victoria, however no preferred destination has been disclosed as Collingwood, Carlton and the Western Bulldogs also express an interest.
The 2024 trade period opens on Monday, October 7 and will run until the evening of Wednesday, October 16.