It's been well documented that the decision West Coast captain Oscar Allen makes about his future will have far-reaching ramifications on the competition.
Brisbane and Hawthorn have reportedly put their hat in the ring for the restricted free agent beyond the season 2025 but a third contending club has entered the race: Collingwood.
Allen could be swayed by joining a premiership-contending club as the Eagles dwell at the bottom of the ladder, including a wooden spoon in 2023 sandwiched between bottom-three finishes.
The Lions vested heavy interest after Joe Daniher's retirement while the Hawks are still on the look-out for a focal piece in their front half, whilst using makeshift key forwards Mabior Chol an youngster Calsher Dear.
However, the Pies, albeit boasting the likes of workman Brody Mihocek, veteran Tim Membrey and Dan McStay, clearing their interest comes in the form of planning for the long-term future.
"Oscar Allen, this is one where I look at and think, this is much as on him now having options," AFL Media's Cal Twomey said on Gettable.
"Does he look at the Tom Barrass move in chasing a second flag with Hawthorn and think, he'd like to do the same and chase a flag somewhere else?
"Brisbane and the Hawks are definitely in. Collingwood has interest as well. They are a watch.
"Keep an eye on the Magpies in the Oscar Allen chase."
Collingwood successfully lured former GWS free agent Harry Perryman to the club, as well as delisted Saint Membrey, while trading for Dan Houston.
What makes the Pies genuine contenders for Allen's signature is the fact that his restricted free agency status won't cost the Victorian club anything in draft capital.
Collingwood gave away their 2025 first-rounder to Gold Coast to acquire Houston.
Allen's acquisition might be well into the millions, but given the potential to spread that over a long-term deal, coupled with the inevitable retirement of Scott Pendlebury, Steele Sidebottom, Jeremy Howe and Mason Cox, there may be some change to play around with after all.
The Eagles' 2025 campaign will play a huge role in Allen's decision-making, and after a Round 1 drubbing at the hands of Gold Coast, it could spell danger for the rebuilding club.
Twomey also said that North Melborune's Luke Davies-Uniacke is more likely to remain at Arden Street while the play for Carlton ruckman Tom De Koning is very much alive, with St Kilda lingering.
Port Adelaide defender Kane Farrell is also likely to remain put.
