Hawthorn reportedly remains interested in trying to lure Western Bulldogs star Bailey Smith this off-season.
Nine journalist Sam McClure revealed on the Tradies podcast that the Hawks’ pursuit of Smith was still alive, though didn’t suggest the 22-year old was going to leave Whitten Oval.
Hawthorn was among the sides linked to Smith earlier this season amid rumblings he could seek a trade, however the midfielder’s manager, Paul Connors from Connor Sports, shut down such talk last month.
Smith, who’s contract expires at the end of next season, grew up barracking for Hawthorn, and McClure confirmed the club hadn’t yet put a line through trying to land the former Pick 7 in the coming weeks.
“My understanding is that Hawthorn has not given up the chase … and they’re still willing to part with Pick 3 for him,” he said on the Tradies podcast.
Despite suggestions Pick 3 was a big price to pay for Smith, who’s been challenged by some off-field issues in recent years, McClure suggested it would be worth it for a player of the Bulldog’s ilk.
“I’m always a big one for picking the guy who’s a known quantity at AFL level and you’re going to get 10 years out of him, versus Pick 3, which could be hit or miss,” he added.
“Bailey Smith was one of the best players in the competition not so long ago, I know he’s had his issues since then.
“If Harley Reid ends up being as good as Bailey Smith, then they’ll be happy with Pick 1.”
CATS’ INTEREST IN O’BRIEN
Geelong has interest in former Hawk and Bulldog Tim O’Brien, according to SEN’s Sam Edmund.
O’Brien was last month delisted by the Bulldogs after crossing over from the Hawks as a free agent on a two-year deal.
And the 29-year old, who played 115 AFL games and was hampered by injury during his time at Whitten Oval, is now in Geelong’s sights.
“Geelong have picked up the phone and expressed an interest in Tim O’Brien as a delisted free agent,” Edmund said.
“Geelong have some level of interest given they’re going to lose Esava Ratugolea and their defenders are getting a bit older. Maybe an insurance policy of sorts.”
SUNS EYEING DELISTED SAINT
Gold Coast is reportedly considering throwing a lifeline to delisted Saint Jack Peris.
SEN’s Tom Morris reports Gold Coast could invite the 19-year old to train with it with an eye on giving him a rookie spot.
Peris played one AFL game for the Saints this year before being one of four players axed last month.
It comes ahead of a busy off-season for the Suns, with Chris Burgess and Mabior Chol and Elijah Hollands all potentially seeking moves.
