Oleg Markov has signed with Collingwood, a day after he began training with cross-town rivals Carlton.
Markov, delisted by the Suns at the end of last year, had trained with the Pies over the summer in a bid for a list spot, but that position was filled by West Adelaide ruckman Oscar Steene last week.
The rebound defender then received AFL approval to train with Carlton, which he did on Thursday, before the 26-year-old accepted an offer from Collingwood.
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“Oleg adds depth at a position of need – he has speed and running power – and he is a quality young man who impressed us during his time with us over the pre-season,” Collingwood GM of Football Graham Wright said.
“We look forward to welcoming Oleg back to our program in the coming days as we continue our preparations for the 2023 season.”
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Making room for Markov is Charlie Dean, with the defender placed on the inactive list after he re-fractured his right foot from a knock at training.
“We are disappointed for Charlie who has had unfortunate luck with his foot over the past year,” Wright said.
“While Charlie is an extremely resilient footballer, we empathise with him after being so dedicated during a lengthy rehab last season and over the summer break.
“Our program will wrap our arms around Charlie and ensure he is well supported as he recovers.”
Dean, who remains contracted until the end of 2024, is yet to feature for Collingwood after being snapped up in the 2021 Rookie Draft.
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Markov was in line for a list spot at the Blues to replace Zac Williams, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury at training in February.
The 26-year-old played 23 senior games in five seasons at Richmond before moving to the Gold Coast, where he played 28 games in two seasons.
