Harry Perryman

Victorian club’s “big crack” to land GWS free agent revealed: AFL trade news

A number of rivals are queuing up for the 25-year-old, but one is making a strong late play.

Published by
Mitch Keating

Collingwood is said to be having a "big crack" at trying to convince GWS free agent Harry Perryman to sign with the Magpies this off-season.

Perryman is yet to inform the Giants of his decision as he weighs up a potential move on the open market, with the utility eligible for free agency under the unrestricted band.

The 25-year-old has garnered interest from Port Adelaide, Hawthorn and Collingwood this year, while the Giants remain in the mix with a long-term deal on the table.

GWS have already confirmed the imminent departures of fellow free agent Nick Haynes and Isaac Cumming, who are expected to land in Victoria and South Australia respectively.

Perryman could join either of the departing duo given the list of clubs circling his signature, with Collingwood the club making a late play for the 129-gamer.

According to News Corp's Jon Ralph, the Magpies are increasing their pursuit of Perryman, with the reigning premiers able to offer more midfield time compared to the Power and Giants.

"Collingwood is having a big crack at Harry Perryman," Ralph told On The Couch. 

"I think they've increased their offer in recent weeks. (They're) very, very keen for help for Nick Daicos, the one thing they can offer is the midfield time.

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 25: Harry Perryman of the Giants celebrates kicking a goal during the round seven AFL match between Greater Western Sydney Giants and Brisbane Lions at Manuka Oval, on April 25, 2024, in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/AFL Photos/via Getty Images )

"If he stays at GWS on six years or goes to Port Adelaide... they've got elite midfield. You can't give him (as much) midfield time.

"He's a free agent."

The interest in Perryman from both the Power and Magpies comes as neither club holds a first-round draft pick for November's intake, with a move for the midfield-defender hybrid not costing any club in trade capital given his status as an unrestricted free agent.

A decision from Perryman can be expected over the coming weeks, with the 2024 free agency window opening on Friday, October 4.

Port Adelaide are facing a busy player movement period as they express interest in the aforementioned Cumming, while Gold Coast forward Jack Lukosius and Collingwood's Joe Richards are also said to be in their sights.

Ralph has revealed Collingwood have upped their offer in the hope of retaining Richards, who does not have a deal for next year and would likely be traded to the Power if he seeks a move away from Olympic Park.

Richards is among close to 10 Collingwood players still uncontracted for the 2025 season, with the Magpies having made one delisting this year in the form of ruckman Aiden Begg.

Published by
Mitch Keating