Several reports suggest that Tom Barrass, a premiership defender from the West Coast, is expected to seek a trade to Hawthorn for a long-term contract.
Barrass, who contemplated a transfer to Sydney last year, has also engaged in discussions with the Western Bulldogs, another Victorian team, to be nearer to his family. However, finalizing the deal may be challenging because the 28-year-old is under contract with the Eagles until the end of 2027, and some consider him a key player for the team.
According to Sweeney’s report, the Eagles are likely to demand significant compensation if a trade is agreed upon, potentially including multiple first-round draft picks.
Currently, Hawthorn’s top pick for the 2024 National Draft is 11th, following their surprising ascent to finals contention after surpassing Carlton into eighth place.
Should a trade occur, it would mark a reunion for Barrass with Hawks coach Sam Mitchell, who was an assistant at West Coast in 2018, as well as with Adrian Hickmott.
Additionally, the Hawks are reportedly leading the pursuit of St Kilda’s key defender and free agent, Josh Battle.
In a significant development in the AFL trade landscape, multiple reports have emerged indicating that Tom Barrass, the West Coast Eagles’ premiership defender, is poised to request a trade to the Hawthorn Hawks. The move, expected to be part of a long-term deal, signals a major shift within the league.
Barrass, who was previously contemplating a move to the Sydney Swans last year, has now turned his attention to Hawthorn. This potential move is driven by his desire to be closer to his family, with Hawthorn also emerging as a strong contender in the race for his signature. Additionally, the Hawks are reportedly leading the chase for St Kilda’s key defender and free agent, Josh Battle.
However, the path to securing Barrass’s services may be fraught with challenges. The 28-year-old is currently under contract with the Eagles until the end of the 2027 season, and the club is expected to demand substantial compensation for his release. According to Sweeney’s report, the Eagles could seek multiple first-round draft picks as part of the deal.
Hawthorn’s current position in the draft is notably impacted by their recent rise in form. After a surprising surge into finals contention and leapfrogging Carlton into eighth place, the Hawks’ first pick for the 2024 National Draft is now 11th. This elevated draft position could play a crucial role in negotiations if a trade is to be finalized.
Should the trade go through, it would mark a reunion for Barrass with Hawks coach Sam Mitchell. Mitchell served as an assistant coach at West Coast in 2018, alongside Adrian Hickmott, who was also part of the coaching staff at that time.
As the AFL trade period approaches, all eyes will be on the negotiations surrounding Barrass’s potential move. The outcome could have significant implications for both the Eagles and the Hawks, shaping the future of both teams in the upcoming season.
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