Western Bulldogs star Bailey Smith has requested a trade to join a new club for the 2025 season.
"Western Bulldogs midfielder Bailey Smith has informed the Club of his desire to seek a trade this off-season," a club statement read.
"The 23-year-old is yet to nominate a preferred Club.
"Given Bailey's immense talent, age and proven ability to influence games, the Club will work diligently to ensure it is fairly compensated throughout the process."
Smith is off-contract at the Kennel and has long had his future speculated on, with rival clubs Geelong and Hawthorn said to be showing some level of interest in the former Pick 7 selection.
The 23-year-old spent the whole 2024 season on the sidelines due to an ACL injury sustained late last year.
Smith has played 103 games in the red, white and blue since making his debut in 2018 and would win a spot in the 22under22 side on four occasions from 2020-2023.
The Dogs ball winner is likely to demand a first-round pick at least on the open market from any keen rival club looking to attain his services.
Geelong and Hawthorn are yet to lock in their opening picks for November's AFL Draft, with the Hawks' pick able to come as low as 13th. The Cats, who won't play until next week's preliminary final, won't select lower than 15th.
Both sides are still in the mix for the premiership and therefore could see their selections balloon out to Pick 18 should they win the flag, while anticipated Academy and father-son bids could see that spot in the queue move beyond Pick 20.
