Highly-rated Fremantle youngster Harley Balic looks set to leave Western Australia this trade period, with reports suggesting the 20-year-old is eyeing a move to Melbourne.
The midfielder was twice granted leave from the Dockers this season due to personal reasons and it seems he is on his way out of the club.
It All Started with an Injury
The Sandringham Dragons product was selected at pick 38 in the 2015 draft, however, his debut season was cut short after undergoing surgery on his troublesome wrist.
He recovered in time to make five appearances at WAFL level with Peel Thunder and impressed enough to be handed his debut in round three, 2017 against the Western Bulldogs.
2017 proved to be another difficult year for the Victorian after he suffered a hamstring injury and was granted personal leave by the Dockers. Fremantle list manager Brad Lloyd has confirmed Balic has requested a trade and is keen for a move back to his hometown.
Lloyd has gone on record in his support of Balic’s move away from the Dockers, saying the club are keen to reach a deal that will allow the youngster to leave WA during the trade period.
The Demons Eye Balic
Balic has been heavily linked with a move to the Melbourne Demons, who finished five places higher than the Dockers in 2017. This could be one of the reasons why Balic wants to head back to his home, with the Demons looking likely to play finals football in 2018.
The Demons are reportedly keen to add a midfielder to its ranks during the trade period, and could be keen to take a punt on Balic.
Averaging 6.5 kicks, 13 disposals, and 3.3 marks per game over his young AFL career, Balic will add depth to a side that missed out on a finals spot on percentage.
Fremantle are massive outsiders to win the 2018 AFL Premiership at $41.00 in comparison to Melbourne’s $17.00 odds, which is the latest Australian free bet offer on offer.
Greater Western Sydney’s are favourites at $4.50, while Sydney and 2017 Grand Finalists Richmond are currently priced at $5.00 and $9.00 respectively.
It seems Balic’s move to Melbourne is more of a case when, not if.
Should the youngster stay injury-free in 2018, he could prove to be a strong addition to the Demons side that will be hoping to be playing football deep into September next season.