THE TELSTRA AFL Trade Period is just around the corner, so what better time to take stock of your club.

What does your team need? Who have they been linked to?

AFL.com.au reporters have taken a look at list changes, line depth and much more.

The best 22 has also been listed, minus players that have already retired or been delisted.

List changes: The Crows have parted ways with Andy Otten (retired), Richard Douglas (delisted) and rookie Paul Hunter (delisted), while ruckman Sam Jacobs has also left as a free agent. Alex Keath, Hugh Greenwood, Eddie Betts, Cam Ellis-Yolmen, Riley Knight, Brad Crouch and Josh Jenkins have all been linked with moves away from West Lakes, while David Mackay has just signed a one-year deal.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Luke Brown, Daniel Talia, Tom Doedee

HB: Rory Laird, Alex Keath, Brodie Smith

C: Paul Seedsman, Rory Sloane, Rory Atkins

HF: Tom Lynch, Taylor Walker, Wayne Milera

F: Chayce Jones, Darcy Fogarty, Eddie Betts

Foll: Reilly O'Brien, Matt Crouch, Brad Crouch

I/C: Bryce Gibbs, Hugh Greenwood, Jake Kelly, Riley Knight

DEPTH

Defenders: Kyle Hartigan, Lachlan Sholl, Jordon Butts, Andrew McPherson, Will Hamill.

Summary: Keath's likely departure will be off-set by Doedee's return from a torn ACL. Sholl had a promising first season developing his game in the SANFL as a running defender, while Butts is aggressive and will be a handy key defender to eventually replace Hartigan.

Midfielders: Cam Ellis-Yolmen, David Mackay, Myles Poholke, Patrick Wilson, Ned McHenry, Jordan Gallucci.

Summary: Could do with adding more leg speed to complement Sloane and the Crouch brothers. Ellis-Yolmen and Mackay are no certainties to be there next year, while Jones and McHenry should get more opportunities.

Rucks: Kieran Strachan

Summary: The Crows are short in their ruck stocks after parting ways with Jacobs and Hunter. Strachan, 23, is still pretty raw and they will need to acquire back-up for O'Brien.

Forwards: Josh Jenkins, Lachlan Murphy, Elliott Himmelberg, Tyson Stengle, Ben Davis, Shane McAdam.

Summary: Jenkins has indicated he wants to move to a new club during the Trade Period, so it's extremely unlikely he'll be at the Crows next year. Murphy and Stengle can fill the void left by Betts, if he, as expected, departs as well. Even with Himmelberg waiting in the wings, the Crows wouldn't mind chasing another key target who could also pinch-hit in the ruck.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

Port Adelaide forward/ruck Billy Frampton would fill the need of another key target up forward, while also being able to give Reilly O'Brien a hand in the ruck. Don't be shocked if the Crows ask Gold Coast about Jack Lukosius, although he's still contracted for another year. The Crows could also make a big play for Collingwood's All Australian ruckman Brodie Grundy, if they're willing to part with their first-round draft pick, currently third overall. - Lee Gaskin

Could the Crows snare Brodie Grundy?

INDICATIVE DRAFT ORDER Your club's latest picks

List changes: No movement so far aside from the retirement of Luke Hodge. The Lions have a number of experienced players out of contract but are keeping flexibility during the Trade Period. Ryan Bastinac, Allen Christensen, Josh Walker, Tom Cutler, Nick Robertson and Lewy Taylor are among those in limbo.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Darcy Gardiner, Harris Andrews, Noah Answerth

HB: Daniel Rich, Marcus Adams, Luke Hodge

C: Hugh McCluggage, Dayne Zorko, Mitch Robinson

HF: Lincoln McCarthy, Dan McStay, Cam Rayner

F: Charlie Cameron, Eric Hipwood, Oscar McInerney

Foll: Stefan Martin, Lachie Neale, Jarryd Lyons

I/C: Alex Witherden, Zac Bailey, Jarrod Berry, Allen Christensen

DEPTH

Defenders: Josh Walker, Ryan Lester, Matt Eagles, Jack Payne, Sam Skinner, Jacob Allison, Mitch Hinge, James Madden.

Summary: Great depth in the key posts with untried and highly rated Payne still waiting in the wings and decisions to be made on the futures of Walker, Skinner and Eagles. The Lions are looking for speed to add to the mix and should be targeting a running half-back during the Trade Period.

Midfielders: Nick Robertson, Tom Cutler, Ryan Bastinac, Rhys Mathieson, Brandon Starcevich, Corey Lyons, Ely Smith, Tom Joyce.

Summary: A great mix of inside and outside talent with ball-winning ability and speed, but the midfield stability could force some movement in the back-up roles. Robertson (pictured below), Cutler and Bastinac are all quality players starved of opportunities and could look elsewhere, particularly with youngsters Starcevich, Smith and Joyce expected to press for senior selection in 2020.

Rucks: Archie Smith

Summary: Martin is Brisbane's version of Benjamin Button. He'll be 33 in November and shows no sign of relinquishing the top spot. With McInerney's ability to take a contested mark locking him in as Martin's sidekick, Smith was again the odd man out this year.

Forwards: Lewy Taylor, Cedric Cox, Ben Keays, Tom Berry, Tom Fullarton, Toby Wooller, Connor Ballenden, Connor McFadyen.

Summary: Hard to pick holes in the forward line of the team that scored more points than any other in 2019. Hipwood and McStay got outmarked occasionally and look better suited as second and third options, but both are still young (22 and 24 respectively) and will improve. Christensen deserves a new contract, while what happens with Taylor – who is too good to play NEAFL – will be interesting.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

Now at a stage where the list simply needs tweaking. A running defender - which could arrive in the form of Gold Coast's Callum Ah Chee - and a quality key forward would be good trade targets. The midfield needs bolstering, but that should happen internally with development over the next two years. - Michael Whiting

Wantaway Sun Callum Ah Chee would be a boost to the Lions' defensive stocks.

List changes: Veteran duo Alex Fasolo and Dale Thomas have retired, while Tom Bugg and Jarrod Pickett departed during the season. A host of players – including Jarrod Garlett, Pat Kerr, Kym LeBois, Matthew Lobbe and Angus Schumacher – were recently delisted. Levi Casboult and Andrew Phillips are uncontracted and are considering their futures.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Kade Simpson, Jacob Weitering, Caleb Marchbank

HB: Nic Newman, Liam Jones, Sam Docherty

C: Sam Petrevski-Seton, Patrick Cripps, Sam Walsh

HF: Michael Gibbons, Charlie Curnow, Zac Fisher

F: Jack Silvagni, Harry McKay, Mitch McGovern

Foll: Matthew Kreuzer, Marc Murphy, Ed Curnow

I/C: Lochie O'Brien, David Cuningham, Levi Casboult, Will Setterfield

DEPTH

Defenders: Lachie Plowman, Tom Williamson, Hugh Goddard, Harrison Macreadie

Summary: The Blues have good key-position depth through the backline, which has been strengthened thanks to Casboult's re-emergence as an intercept defender. However, there is room to add a couple of runners off half-back during the AFL Trade Period.

Midfielders: Paddy Dow, Liam Stocker, Matt Cottrell

Summary: The Blues have built depth through their midfield, but the players in reserve are very inexperienced. Eventually, the club is hopeful Petrevski-Seton, Fisher, O'Brien, Dow and Stocker will make permanent midfield moves. It could always use more quality in this area.

The Blues are back in this!



Paddy Dow rolls it through under real pressure. #AFLBluesDogs pic.twitter.com/KQJ3EgPMO2 — AFL (@AFL) June 15, 2019

Rucks: Andrew Phillips, Tom De Koning

Summary: The club would love to keep Phillips, while it has high hopes for youngster De Koning. Don't be surprised to see the Blues target one more experienced ruckman.

Forwards: Matthew Kennedy, Darcy Lang, Josh Deluca, Cam Polson, Ben Silvagni, Matt Owies, Finbar O'Dwyer

Summary: Carlton's key-position stocks are strong in the forward line, but it would like more speed. There's no surprise a host of small forwards – including Tom Papley, Jack Martin, Sam Gray and Eddie Betts – have been linked to the Blues this off-season.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

The Blues would love to add class and speed, particularly forward of centre. Martin is likely to arrive via a trade from the Suns, having requested a move to Ikon Park, while the club is also keen to secure Papley from the Swans. There are other options, should things go awry. - Riley Beveridge

The acquisition of Jack Martin would tick several boxes for the Blues.



AFL TRADE HUB All the latest news

List changes: Veterans Tyson Goldsack and Daniel Wells have retired and they could soon be followed by Travis Varcoe and Lynden Dunn, while the Magpies have delisted former rookie Sam Murray, who is serving a drug ban. Others under pressure could include uncontracted quartet Jack Madgen, Ben Crocker, Tim Broomhead, Max Lynch. Small forward Jamie Elliott is being courted by Melbourne while defender Matt Scharenberg and midfielder Brayden Sier could also be targeted by rival clubs.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Jeremy Howe, Jordan Roughead, Tom Langdon

HB: Jack Crisp, Darcy Moore, Brayden Maynard

C: Tom Phillips, Scott Pendlebury, Taylor Adams

HF: Steele Sidebottom, Brody Mihocek, Jordan De Goey

F: Jamie Elliott, Mason Cox, Jaidyn Stephenson

Foll: Brodie Grundy, Dayne Beams, Adam Treloar

I/C: Will Hoskin-Elliott, Chris Mayne, Josh Thomas, Callum Brown

DEPTH

Defenders: Matt Scharenberg, Levi Greenwood, James Aish, John Noble, Isaac Quaynor, Nathan Murphy, Jack Madgen, Flynn Appleby, Mark Keane, Will Kelly, Lynden Dunn

Summary: The rise of Moore and the rejuvenation of Roughead filled a significant void in the key posts, and young Kelly is also expected to develop into a strong option, however another tall would be handy. Among an abundance of small to medium-sized defenders, youngsters Quaynor, Noble and Murphy have plenty of upside.

Midfielders: Brayden Sier, Rupert Wills, Josh Daicos, Tyler Brown, Max Lynch

Summary: Easily the Pies' strongest department and one that should ensure they remain in contention. The improvement could come from a fit and healthy Beams, who might still prove the cherry on top, while Sier should bounce back after an underwhelming season and Tyler Brown is an exciting long-term prospect.

Forwards: Ben Reid, Travis Varcoe, Ben Crocker, Atu Bosenavulagi, Tim Broomhead, Tom Wilson, Anton Tohill

Summary: Brimming with speed, skill, X-factor and potential matchwinners including De Goey, Stephenson, Elliott and Hoskin-Elliott, the Pies would ideally boast another marking target. Many more years left in this group overall. Veteran tall Reid is expected to sign another one-year deal.

Varcoe made no mistake on his right boot!#AFLCrowsPies pic.twitter.com/JgNX5xLQ1Q — AFL (@AFL) August 17, 2019

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

For some time now, the Pies have been short on talls. They appear to need another key forward, another key defender and another back-up ruck option. It's unlikely they'll be able to rectify the situation in one hit, but they have been linked with one-game Swans ruckman Darcy Cameron, 24. - Ben Collins

Could Swans ruckman Darcy Cameron find himself in Magpies colours in 2020?





List changes: David Myers, Matt Dea and Mark Baguley have retired, while the Bombers have also delisted Ben McNiece and Jordan Houlahan. They have a number of players who remain out of contract, including Mitch Brown, Michael Hartley, Jake Long and Will Snelling, heading into next week's Telstra AFL Trade Period.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Aaron Francis, Michael Hurley, Patrick Ambrose

HB: Adam Saad, Cale Hooker, Conor McKenna

C: Andrew McGrath, Zach Merrett, Dylan Shiel

HF: Devon Smith, Shaun McKernan, Orazio Fantasia

F: Jake Stringer, Joe Daniher, Anthony McDonald-Tipungwuti

Foll: Tom Bellchambers, Dyson Heppell, Darcy Parish

I/C: David Zaharakis, Matt Guelfi, Mason Redman, Martin Gleeson

DEPTH

Defenders: Jordan Ridley, Brandon Zerk-Thatcher, Michael Hartley

Summary: The Bombers have some depth in their half-back ranks, and they like how Ridley is developing. They are also pleased with the growth in Zerk-Thatcher, who will be expected to play more senior football next year. Hartley is out of contract and his possible departure would leave the club short on defensive back-up.

Midfielders: Kyle Langford, Kobe Mutch, Brayden Ham, Dylan Clarke, Tom Jok, Jake Long, Trent Mynott

Summary: Clarke became a regular member of Essendon's line-up as a tagger in the second half of the season before being dropped for the club's elimination final against West Coast. The Bombers don't have the midfield depth as other clubs, although Ham showed promising signs in his debut year and the Bombers also like Mutch's ball-finding ability and gut run on the wing. They still lack for big-bodied ball-winners.

Rucks: Sam Draper, Zac Clarke

Summary: It's easy to see why the Bombers are looking for another ruckman in the off-season, having unsuccessfully tried to lure Paddy Ryder back to the club. The Bombers are slim in this area, with Clarke remaining out of contract, although they have high hopes for Draper.

Forwards: Mitch Brown, Jayden Laverde, Josh Begley, James Stewart, Will Snelling, Irving Mosquito, Noah Gown

Summary: Begley and Laverde have been in and out of the Bombers' senior side this season, but are more than capable of having an impact as medium forwards. Brown also had a solid season booting 21 goals from 16 games, while Stewart would likely have got his chance if not for injury. The club is in strife for key forwards if Daniher decides to depart the Bombers, with Gown untried and no obvious replacement. Snelling did well to be a small forward option, particularly with doubts over Fantasia's future.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

It will depend who goes out. If Fantasia and Daniher depart then the Bombers will be forced to make the best of a bad situation, and likely restock with draft choices. But if they can retain their stars, the priority should remain with adding midfield depth. Sam Powell-Pepper from Port Adelaide has been linked to the Bombers, while they could also bolster their back half with Power defender Dougal Howard. Gold Coast ruckman Zac Smith has also attracted some interest from the Bombers. – Callum Twomey

Sam Powell-Pepper would add significant midfield depth to the Bombers list.





List changes: Dockers stalwarts Aaron Sandilands (retired) and Hayden Ballantyne (delisted) have departed, while Harley Bennell, Ryan Nyhuis, Shane Kersten and Scott Jones are also gone. Star wingman Bradley Hill has nominated St Kilda as his preferred destination and Ed Langdon is expected to head back to Victoria.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Luke Ryan, Joel Hamling, Reece Conca

HB: Nathan Wilson, Alex Pearce, Connor Blakely

C: Bradley Hill, David Mundy, Ed Langdon

HF: Andrew Brayshaw, Matt Taberner, Darcy Tucker

F: Jesse Hogan, Rory Lobb, Brandon Matera

Foll: Aaron Sandilands, Nat Fyfe, Michael Walters

I/C: Stephen Hill, Adam Cerra, Ethan Hughes, Griffin Logue

DEPTH

Defenders: Taylin Duman, Jason Carter, Tobe Watson

Summary: The backline was one of the biggest positives from Ross Lyon's final season in charge and the new coach won't need to tinker with much. Nyhuis' axing was surprising given the lack of lockdown small defenders on the list.

Midfielders: Brett Bewley, Bailey Banfield, Mitch Crowden, Stefan Giro, Luke Valente, Tom North

Summary: Losing star Lachie Neale last off-season and potentially Bradley Hill and Ed Langdon next month is a hit to the midfield stocks. Luring Tim Kelly would be a huge boost, but the Dockers need their youngsters to step up.

Rucks: Sean Darcy, Lloyd Meek

Summary: Darcy and Lobb are likely to play in the same side going forward and could form one of the best ruck duos in the League. Fremantle will need to add depth alongside untried Meek. Highly rated East Fremantle youngster Luke Jackson will be on the draft radar.

Forwards: Sam Switkowski, Cam McCarthy, Brennan Cox, Travis Colyer, Lachie Schultz, Sam Sturt, Hugh Dixon

Summary: Switkowski, Colyer and Schultz are useful, however Fremantle could do with more firepower at ground level and Next Generation Academy gun Liam Henry could help here. The Dockers boast depth in talls, they just need more luck keeping them on the park.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

Tim Kelly has to be the No.1 target and would take some load off Nat Fyfe's shoulders. If the Dockers miss out, they could receive St Kilda's first pick (currently No.5 overall) for releasing Bradley Hill. Add that to pick six and Fremantle could select a couple of elite youngsters, before likely matching a bid on Henry. - Travis King

Can the Dockers land star Cat Tim Kelly?

List changes: Scott Selwood is the highest-profile culling of a group that also includes Jordan Cunico and Jamaine Jones. Others including Wylie Buzza, Lachie Henderson and Zac Smith are now in limbo. Veterans Harry Taylor and Gary Ablett will play on for one more season, with more list decisions expected to come clearer over the coming week.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Tom Stewart, Mark Blicavs, Jake Kolodjashnij

HB: Mark O'Connor, Harry Taylor, Zach Tuohy

C: Mitch Duncan, Joel Selwood, Jordan Clark

HF: Luke Dahlhaus, Esava Ratugolea, Brandan Parfitt

F: Gryan Miers, Tom Hawkins, Gary Rohan

Foll: Rhys Stanley, Patrick Dangerfield, Tim Kelly

I/C: Cameron Guthrie, Gary Ablett, Tom Atkins, Jack Henry

DEPTH

Defenders: Jed Bews, Lachie Henderson, Zach Guthrie, Ben Jarvis, Stefan Okunbor

Summary: Bews misses out on the starting 22 because he played more VFL than any of the seven defenders named. The need for a running defender with Tuohy ageing and Clark graduating to the wing is high.

Midfielders: Sam Menegola, Charlie Constable, James Parsons, Zac Smith, Ryan Abbott, Sam Simpson, Oscar Brownless, Jacob Kennerley

Summary: There's a distinct need for speed. Scott Selwood's delisting points to the concern the Cats have over the lack of pace in the midfield, The closest two to miss, Menegola and Constable, aren't blessed with foot speed, either.

Forwards: Quinton Narkle, Lachie Fogarty, Darcy Fort, Nathan Kreuger, Nakia Cockatoo, Wylie Buzza, Jake Tarca, Black Schlensog

Summary: With Tom Hawkins suspended in the preliminary final, the Cats overlooked Buzza and Fort so the need for another key tall may be required. Kreuger is on the right track to debut in 2020, while the Cats will be hopeful to get full summers out of Fogarty and Cockatoo.

Na-na-na-na-Narkle!



If only the Fifth Quarter was still around, because young Cat Quinton Narkle just delivered a Saturday Special!#AFLCatsBlues pic.twitter.com/KRt6bfDcEj — AFL (@AFL) August 24, 2019

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

Pace in the midfield is of the highest priority, with Jordan Clark's debut season a clear example as to what they're lacking. Saint Jack Steven would assist with in this area. With Tom Hawkins, Lachie Henderson and Harry Taylor to all start next year at 30 or older, replenishing the key position stocks is also a requirement. – Mitch Cleary

Four-time Saints best and fairest Jack Steven could find himself in blue and white hoops next season.





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List changes: Four players already gone and another two want out – it looks like another busy off-season for the Suns. Michael Rischitelli retired after nine terrific seasons at the club, and Jack Leslie, Brad Scheer and Connor Nutting were all delisted. Jack Martin and Callum Ah Chee have both requested to be traded.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Jack Hombsch, Rory Thompson, Jarrod Harbrow

HB: Pearce Hanley, Sam Collins, Callum Ah Chee

C: Lachie Weller, Touk Miller, Wil Powell

HF: Ben Ainsworth, Ben King, Jack Martin

F: Alex Sexton, Sam Day, Izak Rankine

Foll: Jarrod Witts, David Swallow, Jack Bowes

I/C: Jack Lukosius, Brayden Fiorini, Darcy Macpherson, Sean Lemmens

DEPTH

Defenders: Charlie Ballard, Jesse Joyce, Jordan Murdoch, Corey Ellis, Chris Burgess, Jacob Heron, Caleb Graham, Jez McLennan, Harrison Wigg, Mitch Riordan

Summary: If everyone was fit, they're quite well off. Thompson and Collins are excellent at the key posts, while Ballard (pictured below) and Lukosius showed plenty of promise when asked to take on greater responsibility. With Ah Chee wanting to leave and Hanley and Harbrow both over 30, the search to recruit or develop some running defenders should be on.

Midfielders: Will Brodie, Anthony Miles, George Horlin-Smith, Nick Holman, Josh Schoenfeld, Jacob Dawson, Sam Fletcher

Summary: Plenty of disciplined, hard-working ball-winners here, but not much speed. Weller and Powell add dash on the wings, but unless Ben Ainsworth is thrown onball, there's a lot of similarity with the current midfield crop.

Rucks: Tom Nicholls, Brayden Crossley

Summary: A problematic area on the list. Witts is not only the co-captain and reigning club champion, he is also an ironman that almost never gets injured. Nicholls had a strong NEAFL year and if he's happy playing second fiddle, needs to be re-signed as a back-up, particularly with Crossley's immediate future in limbo.

Forwards: Josh Corbett, Aaron Young

Summary: With Martin expressing his desire to leave, the Suns look light-on for marking targets at half-forward. The key stocks are decent with Day reviving his career in 2019 and King – who all eyes will be on as the club is desperate to extend his stay – showing enormous potential. Wright is good enough to bounce back next year, while Sexton, Ainsworth and Rankine offer the speed and excitement.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

The Suns simply must keep pick one and two (if they get it) to acquire classy midfielders Matt Rowell and Noah Anderson at the draft. Talks have linked them to Adelaide's Brad Crouch, but they must be careful to not overpay, as that type of hard-working midfielder is already well catered for. Brandon Ellis would be an ideal fit at half-back or the wing if he comes via free agency, while trading for another lively forward would be handy, but not a priority. - Michael Whiting

Brad Crouch could become a Sun.



List changes: Brett Deledio and Dawson Simpson have already retied, while Shane Mumford will make a call on his future in the next couple of weeks. Adam Tomlinson has played his last game for the club and looks set to head to Melbourne, while Jon Patton is likely to also depart for Hawthorn.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Heath Shaw, Aidan Corr, Sam Taylor

HB: Zac Williams, Phil Davis, Nick Haynes

C: Josh Kelly, Callan Ward, Harry Perryman

HF: Toby Greene, Jeremy Cameron, Lachie Whitfield

F: Stephen Coniglio, Harry Himmelberg, Jeremy Finlayson

Foll: Shane Mumford, Tim Taranto, Jacob Hopper

I/C: Matt de Boer, Brent Daniels, Adam Kennedy, Sam Reid

DEPTH

Defenders: Isaac Cumming, Lachie Keeffe, Matt Buntine, Connor Idun, Jake Stein

Summary: The backline held up brilliantly all season led by Davis and Haynes. All key areas are well covered and apart from Shaw, the defenders are all in or approaching their prime. Williams might be lost to the midfield next season.

Midfielders: Adam Tomlinson, Jye Caldwell, Jackson Hately, Tommy Sheridan, Aiden Bonar, Xavier O'Halloran, Nick Shipley

Summary: The Giants are flush with gun inside ball-winners and get Coniglio and Ward back next year but could use some outside speed to add run to the midfield. Tomlinson is on the way out but there's plenty of talent coming through.

Rucks: Matt Flynn, Kieren Briggs

Summary: An area of concern with Mumford no guarantee to go on next year and Flynn to miss most of the year with an ACL. Briggs is still developing but it looks like Adelaide's Sam Jacobs will move to the Giants to add some experience.

Forwards: Jon Patton, Zac Langdon, Daniel Lloyd, Ian Hill, Jon Patton, Zac Sproule, Dylan Buckley, Jack Buckley

Summary: Another area of strong depth that could change depending on the role of Greene and Whitfield, who could be used as midfielders. Patton is on the way out but isn't in the best 22 anyway.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

Some outside run and speed in the midfield a must, with the Giants' premium onballers all inside ball-winners and hard nuts, and Academy prospect Tom Green likely to add to that mix at the draft. Williams could switch roles to bring some dash. Jacobs will be a handy addition in the big man department. - Adam Curley

Former No.1 pick Jon Patton has requested a trade to Hawthorn.





UNFINISHED BUSINESS Heath Shaw shelves retirement plans

List changes: The only change so far is champion forward Jarryd Roughead retiring. The Hawks are yet to announce their intentions with Grant Birchall, Kaiden Brand, Teia Miles, Darren Minchington, David Mirra, Tim Mohr, Marc Pittonet, Paul Puopolo and Ryan Schoenmakers.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Jack Scrimshaw, James Frawley, Ben Stratton

HB: Blake Hardwick, James Sicily, Jarman Impey

C: Isaac Smith, Tom Mitchell, Ricky Henderson

HF: Chad Wingard, Tim O'Brien, Jack Gunston

F: Paul Puopolo, Mitch Lewis, Luke Breust

Foll: Ben McEvoy, Jaeger O'Meara, James Worpel

I/C: Shaun Burgoyne, Tom Scully, Liam Shiels, Jon Ceglar

DEPTH

Defenders: Grant Birchall, Kaiden Brand, Conor Glass, David Mirra, Changkuoth Jiath, Teia Miles, Jacob Koschitzke, Damon Greaves, Tim Mohr

Summary: A hamstring injury ended Birchall's season and he's had a horror run in recent seasons, so it'll be interesting to see if he plays on in 2020. Jiath and Koschitzke are long-term options but Brand, Mirra and Miles are back-ups if they continue.

Grant Birchall with a trademark goal on the run! #AFLNorthHawks pic.twitter.com/dVPRLa4hfc — AFL (@AFL) August 2, 2019

Midfielders: James Cousins, Dan Howe, Harry Morrison, Harry Jones, Will Golds

Summary: Cousins lost his senior spot in the second half of the year but is a big ball-winner at VFL level and shows promise. Howe and Morrison are proven young options, Jones looks ready to go and Golds is a hard worker with good endurance.

Rucks: Marc Pittonet, Ned Reeves

Summary: Pittonet is yet to re-sign but is consistently among the best VFL ruckmen and could yet be elsewhere next year, given the presence of Ben McEvoy and Jon Ceglar. Reeves is a giant but a project at this stage.

Forwards: Conor Nash, Ollie Hanrahan, Dylan Moore, Jackson Ross, Mathew Walker, Darren Minchington, Ryan Schoenmakers

Summary: There are some good variety and genuine talent in this group. Nash, Hanrahan and Moore received senior opportunities this year, while Ross and Walker had some standout state league games and will push hard to debut next season.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

Greater Western Sydney power forward Jon Patton confirmed the AFL's worst-kept secret on Tuesday, when he requested a trade to the Hawks. Out-of-contract Demon Sam Frost looks headed for Waverley Park, too. Hawthorn has also shown interest in out-of-favour Tiger Dan Butler. – Marc McGowan

The Hawks have shown interest in Demons defender Sam Frost.





List changes: Jeff Garlett and Declan Keilty have been delisted, while veteran Jordan Lewis has retired. Corey Maynard, Tim Smith and Guy Walker have also decided to finish up after injuries curtailed their careers.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Neville Jetta, Sam Frost, Jake Lever

HB: Michael Hibberd, Steven May, Christian Salem

C: Bayley Fritsch, Jack Viney, Aaron vandenBerg

HF: Mitch Hannan, Tom McDonald, Jake Melksham

F: Jayden Hunt, Sam Weideman, Christian Petracca

Foll: Max Gawn, Clayton Oliver, James Harmes

I/C: Angus Brayshaw, Marty Hore, Nathan Jones, Alex Neal-Bullen

DEPTH

Defenders: Josh Wagner, Kade Kolodjashnij, Jay Kennedy Harris, Oscar McDonald, Harrison Petty, Joel Smith, Tom Sparrow

Summary: Frost presents an intriguing scenario. He wants to stay but hasn't yet been able to come to an agreement with the club. He was one of the few who performed well this season and Hawthorn is interested. Having May and Lever fit will be massive, and if Kolodjashnij can overcome his concussion issues, he could have a real influence, whether it's down back or on a wing.

Midfielders: Oskar Baker, Billy Stretch, Corey Wagner, Kyle Dunkley, James Jordon, Aaron Nietschke

Summary: There are plenty of inside midfielders but more help is needed on the outside. Baker showed dash and can play in various positions, while Stretch has ability as well. The Dees need Brayshaw to bounce back after a disappointing 2019. Foot problems meant vandenBerg wasn't seen this year, and he's valuable when fit.

Rucks: Braydon Preuss, Austin Bradtke

Summary: Preuss (pictured below) was often dominant in the VFL but struggled to establish himself at the top level, when asked to play more as a forward-ruck behind Gawn. He's shown he has the ability to cut it at the top level. Bradtke is a Category B rookie and will take time to develop.

Forwards: Jay Lockhart, Charlie Spargo, Kade Chandler, Toby Bedford

Summary: Tom McDonald couldn't replicate his feats of last year, when he bagged 53 goals. He needs to lift, as does Weideman, who will be entering his fifth season. A fractured foot interrupted Jake Melksham, so having him back will be a massive boon.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

Outside run and polish would be handy, while the club lacks firepower up forward after Jesse Hogan's departure in 2018. The addition of Ed Langdon from Fremantle should complement the Dees' ball-winners, while Tomlinson is one of the most versatile players in the competition, because of his height and running power, so can be deployed anywhere. - Dinny Navaratnam

Ed Langdon is likely to become a Demon.

List changes: Veterans Scott Thompson and Sam Wright retired, Irishman Red Og Murphy pulled the pin on his AFL experience, and Tom Wilkinson departed early to take part in the next series of The Amazing Race Australia. The Roos also delisted Nathan Hrovat and Declan Watson, leaving a decision to be made on only rookie-listed Tom McKenzie.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Ed Vickers-Willis, Robbie Tarrant, Marley Williams

HB: Jasper Pittard, Majak Daw, Shaun Atley

C: Jared Polec, Ben Cunnington, Trent Dumont

HF: Mason Wood, Nick Larkey, Tarryn Thomas

F: Kayne Turner, Ben Brown, Cameron Zurhaar

Foll: Todd Goldstein, Jack Ziebell, Shaun Higgins

I/C: Jy Simpkin, Luke Davies-Uniacke, Jed Anderson, Taylor Garner

DEPTH

Defenders: Luke McDonald, Jamie Macmillan, Sam Durdin, Tom Murphy, Ben McKay, Joel Crocker

Summary: Durdin and McKay will jostle for key defensive spots in the senior side, but the Roos may look to bolster that area in the Trade Period. Smaller backmen McDonald, Macmillan (pictured below) and Murphy will get plenty of AFL opportunities as well.

Midfielders: Ben Jacobs, Bailey Scott, Paul Ahern, Dom Tyson, Aaron Hall, Will Walker, Kyron Hayden, Tom McKenzie

Summary: Jacobs hasn't played in about 18 months because of various head and neck-related issues, but he is a first-choice player if he can return. Walker's another player North will be keen to see fit again. It's an interesting mix of youth and experience here.

Ruckmen: Tom Campbell, Tristan Xerri

Summary: Campbell played two senior games in his first season at Arden St and was outstanding at VFL level, finishing third in the state league competition's JJ Liston Trophy. The 27-year-old will be Todd Goldstein's understudy in 2020, while ruck-forward Xerri continues to develop.

Forwards: Curtis Taylor, Lachie Hosie

Summary: Taylor had limited AFL exposure in his debut season, while mid-season draftee Hosie spent his time at the club in the VFL. Both will push for more opportunities next year.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

North Melbourne appears to be in the market for another key defender, with Scott Thompson retiring and the jury still being out on Sam Durdin and Ben McKay. The Kangaroos met last week with Port Adelaide swingman Dougal Howard, whose best football was down back. They look to have missed out on Tom Papley. - Marc McGowan

The Roos have met with the Power's Dougal Howard.

List changes: Former No.2 overall draft pick Jack Trengove and rookies Cam Hewett and Kai Pudney have been delisted. Ruckman Paddy Ryder has agreed to join St Kilda, while Sam Gray is exploring opportunities elsewhere.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Darcy Byrne-Jones, Tom Clurey, Ryan Burton

HB: Hamish Hartlett, Tom Jonas, Riley Bonner

C: Karl Amon, Ollie Wines, Xavier Duursma

HF: Brad Ebert, Justin Westhoff, Connor Rozee

F: Robbie Gray, Charlie Dixon, Todd Marshall

Foll: Scott Lycett, Travis Boak, Tom Rockliff

I/C: Zak Butters, Matthew Broadbent, Dan Houston, Sam Powell-Pepper

DEPTH

Defenders: Jack Watts, Trent McKenzie, Joel Garner, Jarrod Lienert, Martin Frederick, Riley Grundy

Summary: The Power have a pretty solid backline with plenty of versatility. Watts looked at home at half-back before suffering a season-ending leg injury in round two. He could replace Broadbent, who is out of contract. Swingman Dougal Howard can also play as a key defender.

Jack Watts was taken off the field on the stretcher after this tackle from Dale Thomas.#AFLPowerBlues pic.twitter.com/6PGtUa9CeK — AFL (@AFL) March 30, 2019

Midfielders: Willem Drew, Cam Sutcliffe, Sam Mayes, Joe Atley

Summary: Drew will put serious pressure on Powell-Pepper for a place in the Power's best 22, while Sutcliffe is a handy player to have. The mid-season recruit is expected to be retained. The Power will need to re-stock their midfield depth after delisting Trengove, Hewett and Pudney.

Rucks: Peter Ladhams, Sam Hayes

Summary: The battle between Ladhams and Lycett for the lead ruck role will be a good one. Paddy Ryder's departure opens the door for both to play together, while the Power have high hopes for 20-year-old Hayes.

Forwards: Dougal Howard, Steven Motlop, Kane Farrell, Billy Frampton, Aidyn Johnson, Jake Patmore, Tobin Cox, Boyd Woodcock

Summary: Howard can play either end of the ground and should force his way into the side. However, there's reported interest from rival clubs despite being contracted until 2022. Motlop's been overtaken by young guns Rozee and Butters, while Frampton and Johnson have yet to be re-signed.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

The Power could do with adding some more leg speed through the midfield to complement their inside bulls. They will also need to have one eye on the future with Justin Westhoff (33 on October 1), Travis Boak (31), Robbie Gray (31) and Tom Rockliff (30 at the start of next season) moving into the twilight of their careers. - Lee Gaskin

List changes: Shaun Grigg retired mid-season, while Mav Weller is also expected to hang up the boots, having told teammates 2019 will be his last year. While there have been no delistings as yet, restricted free agent Brandon Ellis has been offered a five-year deal at Gold Coast, while Dan Butler is also exploring his options elsewhere.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Dylan Grimes, Alex Rance, David Astbury

HB: Bachar Houli, Nick Vlastuin, Jayden Short

C: Brandon Ellis, Dion Prestia, Josh Caddy

HF: Shai Bolton, Tom Lynch, Shane Edwards

F: Daniel Rioli, Jack Riewoldt, Jason Castagna

Foll: Ivan Soldo, Dustin Martin, Trent Cotchin

I/C: Nathan Broad, Jack Graham, Kane Lambert, Sydney Stack

DEPTH

Defenders: Liam Baker, Ryan Garthwaite, Derek Eggmolesse-Smith, Patrick Naish, Ben Miller

Summary: With Rance in the 22, someone has to make way and that's Baker. Rebounders Eggmolesse-Smith and Naish are two of the most improved players on the list, but key defensive depth is still an issue.

Midfielders: Marlion Pickett, Jack Ross, Kamdyn McIntosh, Riley Collier-Dawkins, Connor Menadue, Fraser Turner, Jacob Townsend, Luke English, Mav Weller

Summary: Strong midfield depth with Pickett being the 23rd player, despite his stunning Grand Final. He had been named as an emergency for several weeks prior, unable to force his way into the side until Graham's injury. There's been a few reports McIntosh may be feeling aggrieved having missed out on the VFL and AFL flags, and he's been a bit lost playing in defence in the twos. However, with Ellis on his way out, McIntosh could regain his position on the wing.

Rucks: Toby Nankervis, Mabior Chol, Noah Balta, Callum Coleman-Jones

Summary: Nankervis misses out on the 22 due to his long-term injury, while Chol and Balta impressed with their work around the ground this year. The buzz around the 20-year-old Coleman-Jones is growing, and he's one to watch in the future.

Forwards: Jack Higgins, Callum Moore, Dan Butler, Oleg Markov, Jake Aarts

Summary: Fingers are crossed for a fully fit Higgins in 2020, having undergone two bouts of brain surgery for a bleed. Moore is a good backup but doesn't look like breaking into the line-up soon, while Butler has been linked to Carlton in particular. Markov has reinvented himself as a deep forward, but consistency within games is still an issue.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

Key position depth at both ends needs a little assistance, with Garthwaite, Miller (who can play forward or back) and Coleman-Jones (forward-ruck) still some way off. A player in their mid-to-late 20s as a stop-gap measure would work well, but they're hard to come by. After landing their big fish in Lynch in 2018, the Tigers' off-season appears to be fairly quiet. – Sarah Black.



Alex Rance will be like a new, mature-age recruit next year.







DUSTY'S DOUBLE Martin joins an elite Norm Smith group

List changes: Hard nut David Armitage, who excelled inside the contest before injuries curtailed his career, heads a list of four players who have been delisted so far. The others are big men Billy Longer, Lewis Pierce and Sam Rowe. Four-time best and fairest Jack Steven is headed for Geelong and key forward Josh Bruce looks destined for the Western Bulldogs.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Jarryn Geary, Jake Carlisle, Callum Wilkie

HB: Dylan Roberton, Josh Battle, Hunter Clark

C: Jack Billings, Seb Ross, Dan Hannebery

HF: Jade Gresham, Josh Bruce, Jack Sinclair

F: Nick Hind, Tim Membrey, Jack Lonie

Foll: Rowan Marshall, Jack Steele, Jack Steven

I/C: Luke Dunstan, Jimmy Webster, Shane Savage, Blake Acres

DEPTH

Defenders: Nathan Brown, Nick Coffield, Ben Paton, Daniel McKenzie, Jonathon Marsh, Brandon White, Darragh Joyce, Oscar Clavarino, Logan Austin, Bailey Rice.

Summary: St Kilda hasn't decided whether it will keep Brown on. He's still playing solid footy but at 30, could see his career ended. The Saints have long had too many half-backs, and Dylan Roberton's expected return from heart issues only adds to that stockpile.

Midfielders: Jack Newnes, Ed Phillips, Doulton Langlands, Jack Bytel

Summary: Genuine star quality and players who can deliver the football well are needed. If Hannebery can stay fit, he would add to the A-grade talent. Billings showed he's a jet and if Gresham can improve his tank, he will probably spend more time in the middle. Newnes is a restricted free agent and may leave.

Doctor, doctor, tell me the Newnes!



Saints get their first in China. #AFLSaintsPower pic.twitter.com/uwlg5EwzKg — AFL (@AFL) June 2, 2019

Ruckmen: Sam Alabakis

Summary: With Pierce, Longer and Rowe delisted, the Saints are light on in this department. Marshall is a star already and will improve further but Alabakis is a Category B rookie and is a long way off senior football. Adding Paddy Ryder from Port Adelaide will help, and the Saints might look to recruit another big man, just in case injury strikes.

Forwards: Max King, Matthew Parker, Dean Kent, Ben Long, Paddy McCartin, Robbie Young, Jack Mayo.

Summary: Right knee and ankle injuries dogged King in his debut campaign, but there's a fair chance he would have cemented himself in this line-up had he been fit. The same might have been said of Paddy McCartin, but ongoing concussion problems means he hasn't had a chance to show his value. He's no certainty to take to the field again.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

The main need is class – foot skills have been an issue for a while. St Kilda lacks pace and aggression as well. The Saints are making moves to fix those issues. Ryder and Fremantle running machine Bradley Hill have said they want to land at Moorabbin, while Sydney speedster Zak Jones is expected to join them. They're also among the clubs having a look at Adelaide onballer Brad Crouch. - Dinny Navaratnam

Bradley Hill wants to become a Saint.

WHO'S HANGING UP THE BOOTS? Your club's retirements and delistings

List changes: Veterans Jarrad McVeigh, Kieren Jack, Nick Smith and Heath Grundy leave a massive hole in experience after retiring, and that won't be easy to replace. Speculation is raging that Zak Jones and Tom Papley could be headed back to Victoria, with talented tall Darcy Cameron another considering a move, while Essendon's Joe Daniher might be headed to Sydney.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Callum Mills, Dane Rampe, Lewis Melican

HB: Jordan Dawson, Aliir Aliir, Jake Lloyd

C: Isaac Heeney, Josh Kennedy, Oliver Florent

HF: Tom Papley, Sam Reid, Will Hayward

F: Nick Blakey, Lance Franklin, Tom McCartin

Foll: Callum Sinclair, Luke Parker, George Hewett

I/C: Zak Jones, Harry Cunningham, Ben Ronke, James Rowbottom

DEPTH

Defenders: Colin O'Riordan, Jackson Thurlow, Jack Maibaum, Harry Reynolds, Durak Tucker

Summary: The loss of McVeigh, Smith and Grundy hurts the back half, but the emergence of Dawson this year was impressive. If the Swans can find a key defender for some depth, they would jump at the chance.

Midfielders: Matthew Ling, Robbie Fox, Ryan Clarke, James Bell, Ryley Stoddart, Justin McInerney, Zac Foot

Summary: With Kennedy turning 32 next year, the Swans would love another big body to give him a hand, alongside Parker, Hewett and Heeney. Florent and Rowbottom are exciting runners but they'll likely lose the speed of Jones during the trade period. Mills might make the move from defence.

Rucks: Sam Naismith, Darcy Cameron, Hayden McLean, Michael Knoll, Joel Amartey

Summary: This area caused some headaches this year thanks to injuries, but Sinclair and Naismith both should be ready to go for the start of next year, and McLean proved a handy back-up. Cameron is likely headed elsewhere for an opportunity.

Forwards: Daniel Menzel, James Rose, Sam Wicks, Cody Hirst, Toby Pink

Summary: Franklin remains the wild card here after two injury-plagued seasons. Missing the finals might have been a blessing if he can get some training in over summer. The loss of Papley would be a huge blow, but that would be forgotten if Daniher arrives and is fit and healthy.

Daniel Menzel with a cracker from the pocket! #AFLPowerSwans pic.twitter.com/oOflvKKN3p — AFL (@AFL) August 10, 2019

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

If Papley and Jones do head to Victoria, the Swans should be able to get some very good draft selections in return, and while some of those might be needed in a deal for Daniher (including their current pick No.5), they should still have a strong hand. Plenty of money in the salary cap also means a high-profile free agent could head to the Harbour City. - Adam Curley

Tom Papley wants to be a Blue.









List changes: Premiership wingman Chris Masten has left the club after not being offered a new deal and hopes to continue his career elsewhere. One of the AFL's great survivors, Fraser McInnes, is gone after 14 games in eight years, alongside category B rookies Brodie Riach and Patrick Bines.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Brad Sheppard, Tom Barrass, Will Schofield

HB: Shannon Hurn, Jeremy McGovern, Lewis Jetta

C: Andrew Gaff, Jack Redden, Dom Sheed

HF: Willie Rioli, Jack Darling, Jamie Cripps

F: Liam Ryan, Josh Kennedy, Oscar Allen

Foll: Nic Naitanui, Elliot Yeo, Luke Shuey

I/C: Tom Hickey, Liam Duggan, Mark Hutchings, Jack Petruccelle

DEPTH

Defenders: Josh Rotham, Tom Cole, Jackson Nelson, Francis Watson, Harry Edwards

Summary: Replacing superboots Hurn and Jetta will be a huge problem, and Edwards (pictured below) shapes as the sole key defender coming through the ranks. The Eagles like their kids pushing through but need them to step up in the next 12-24 months.

Midfielders: Brendon Ah Chee, Josh Smith, Brayden Ainsworth, Hamish Brayshaw, Matthew Allen, Xavier O'Neill, Kurt Mutimer, Luke Foley

Summary: There have been so few opportunities in the past two seasons that it is hard to know how many of this group could cut it. Another goalkicking onballer, a la Tim Kelly, would be priceless with Luke Shuey approaching his 30th birthday next June.

Rucks: Nathan Vardy, Keegan Brooksby

Summary: Vardy was disappointing after playing a key role in the flag success, and Brooksby appears to only be a depth option. The Eagles will need to find a younger ruckman to develop in the next season or two.

Forwards: Jake Waterman, Jarrod Cameron, Daniel Venables, Jarrod Brander, Bailey Williams

Summary: The expected loss of Willie Rioli hurts but West Coast liked what Cameron brought to the table, while Allen, Waterman, Brander and Williams looks a promising future tall forward blend as Josh Kennedy declines.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

The chase for Tim Kelly is set to dominate the Eagles' off-season and another damaging midfielder who wins their own ball is their most pressing need. If West Coast is successful, it's going to take some high draft picks, and maybe a young player, to get the deal done. - Travis King

List changes: The Bulldogs haven't delisted any players yet, but have had three retirees in Tom Boyd, Liam Picken and most recently Dale Morris. St Kilda full-forward Josh Bruce and Adelaide full-back Alex Keath have expressed their desire to join the Bulldogs in this year's Telstra AFL Trade Period, which should give the club some much-needed depth in the key positions.

Best 22 in 2019 if everyone was available

B: Caleb Daniel, Zaine Cordy, Taylor Duryea

HB: Hayden Crozier, Easton Wood, Jason Johannisen

C: Ed Richards, Josh Dunkley, Lachie Hunter

HF: Sam Lloyd, Josh Schache, Toby McLean

F: Bailey Dale, Aaron Naughton, Bailey Smith

Foll: Tim English, Marcus Bontempelli, Jack Macrae

I/C: Tom Liberatore, Matt Suckling, Patrick Lipinski, Mitch Wallis



DEPTH

Defenders: Lewis Young, Jackson Trengove, Bailey Williams, Roarke Smith, Lachie Young, Bradley Lynch, Fletcher Roberts, Laitham Vandermeer, Buku Khamis

Summary: Many of the half-back types can easily play on a wing or half-forward, but the Bulldogs are stocked with many of the same type. The Dogs will aim to add Keath as a key defender.

Midfielders: Rhylee West, Will Hayes, Lin Jong, Callum Porter

Summary: Luke Beveridge is happy to play closer to nine or 10 midfielders, while many other clubs will run with eight, so while there's only four names listed as depth, the Bulldogs bat pretty deep in the midfield. West could easily break through next year.

Rucks: Jordon Sweet

Summary: The Dogs are very pleased with Sweet's development but he's still very raw. Lewis Young, Schache and Trengove have been used as back-up rucks for the first choice in English. Adding Bruce could add to that pool of pinch-hitters.

Forwards: Tory Dickson, Billy Gowers, Ryan Gardner, Lukas Webb, Fergus Greene, Ben Cavarra

Summary: Dickson might not be an automatic selection next year if he signs a new contract with the Dogs. Class and creativity is lacking in this depth group, but that doesn't grow on trees.

WHAT DO THEY NEED? WHO ARE THEY LINKED TO?

The Dogs will be keen to get the Bruce and Keath deals done as quickly as possible, but might need to be open to the prospect of trading some of their early picks. They currently hold picks 12, 30, 41, 46 and 48, giving them decent currency to use, particularly with the Crows who are looking to add more youth to their squad. They may also look to add some depth to their ruck stocks in case of injury to English. - Jourdan Canil and Josh Schonafinger

Josh Bruce could be on his way to the Dogs.





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