Essendon are weighing up a bold play for West Coast livewire Liam Ryan, as the Bombers look to inject some much-needed flair and scoring power into their stuttering forward line.
While Ryan remains under contract with the Eagles until the end of 2026 and is believed to be settled in Western Australia, the 27-year-old could be open to a change of scenery with West Coast deep in a long-term rebuild under Andrew McQualter.
After battling injuries in recent seasons, Ryan has returned to form with 19 goals from 14 games in 2025, one of the few shining lights in a side anchored to 18th spot on the ladder.
Bombers circling as scoring woes mount
Essendon have struggled badly in front of goal, ranking third-last in the league for total points scored, more than 150 points behind even the 15th-placed North Melbourne, despite having played one fewer game.
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The club is keen to add x-factor and has identified Ryan as a player who can stretch defences and create chaos inside 50.
The Bombers’ list boss Matt Rosa has deep ties to WA, having played and coached at West Coast and worked at Peel Thunder, relationships that could prove handy in any potential approach.
Essendon are also well placed at the trade table, holding two first-round and two second-round picks in the 2025 draft. And with Sam Draper potentially exiting via free agency, the club may yet bank another early selection.
Ryan’s electrifying pace, aerial ability and forward pressure could be just the spark Essendon need.