Greater Western Sydney’s desire to retain Dylan Shiel could help Fremantle secure a trade for Giants ruckman Rory Lobb, according to recent player movement speculation.

The Giants’ talented list has seen them operate under serious salary cap pressure, to the point where it is understood they will need to move a player at the end of this year in order to create some relief.

Shiel is contracted for one more season but is already fielding plenty of interest from his home state of Victoria. Carlton are believed to be at the front of the queue with more than $1 million per season on the table.

But the latest reports indicate the Giants are increasingly confident Shiel will remain in New South Wales.

If that’s the case, it could pave the way for the Dockers to recruit Lobb.

Lobb signed a two year deal with GWS in 2017, but has spoken publicly about the temptation to return home to WA.

Speaking on On The Couch on Monday, Fox Footy’s Tom Morris said the Shiel situation could work in Freo’s favour.

“The Giants need to free up salary space so Rory Lobb to Fremantle is a big possibility,” he said.

Lobb has played five season at the Giants since being drafted out of Swan Districts in 2013.

The 207cm 25-year-old’s best season was in 2016, when he averaged five marks and 1.2 goals in 24 games.

Lobb’s ability to play forward would be a massive win for the Dockers, who have been crying out for a key target inside 50.