West Coast are reportedly preparing to split the high-end draft pick they expect to receive should captain Oscar Allen walk as a free agent, despite Allen giving no public indication he’ll leave at season’s end.
Channel 10’s Steve Allen reports that the Eagles are exploring ways to split the potential compensation pick, likely to be pick 2, with an eye on building greater depth through the first round of the 2025 draft.
Brisbane and Hawthorn are among the clubs circling the versatile tall, whose free agency status gives him leverage to explore options elsewhere.
At present, the Eagles also hold pick 1, and are understood to be targeting high-flying talent Cooper Duff-Tytler, whose elite athleticism and ball skills have drawn comparisons to Fremantle star Luke Jackson.
Gold Coast in line to make a move
Gold Coast, armed with a promising batch of Academy talent, are said to be eyeing the Eagles’ prospective pick 2 in a strategic bid to get ahead of expected draft bids.
The Suns are especially keen on positioning themselves to secure Zeke Uwland, younger brother of defender Bodhi, and rebounding backman Dylan Patterson, both seen as top-five prospects.
Steve Allen reports one potential scenario being discussed involves West Coast trading pick 2 for Gold Coast’s first-rounder and Port Adelaide’s selection, currently picks 8 and 12, plus more assets.
That move would allow West Coast to secure their top priority while still bolstering their list with multiple early selections.