Essendon are looking to make a statement ahead of their inaugural AFLW season, with the Bombers reportedly making a big play for Carlton gun Madison Prespakis.
Among the league's newest expansion clubs, the Bombers have been circling a big name to launch themselves into the competition, with the 2020 AFLW Best and Fairest winner, who grew up supporting Essendon, noted to be top of their list.
Prespakis, fresh off winning the Carlton best and fairest this week, has multiple offers to consider, with Blues are sure to be keen on keeping her as the Bombers circle, according to The Herald Sun.
However, the size of the Essendon offer may prove too alluring, as the club's marquee signing she would command a lucrative deal.
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Marquee contracts include further wage benefits than solely those that are playing related. However, Prespakis has stated her future won't be determined by money.
Following the 21-year-old's best and fairest win, she moved to clarify her ambitions.
"I just want to keep getting better," she said.
"When I finish playing footy, I want to be someone like Daisy Pearce or Erin Phillips and leave a legacy for my name and for the footy club I play at."
"(My aim is) definitely is to keep getting better every year, keep getting fitter and stronger and keep working on my game, because I'm only 21 and I'd like to think I've still got another 10 years ahead of me."
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Senior Carlton figures are understood to be unsure of Prespakis' plans. As a Bombers fan growing up, it's not a stretch to imagine there is a lure for her to play in the red sash.
The news adds further intrigued to what is shaping as a blockbuster trade period for the AFLW as the Swans, Hawks and Power also join the competition and look to bolster their lists for next season.