Greater Western Sydney is set to drive a hard bargain for stars who want out.
Plus a potential retirement backflip is on the cards for a former AFL star.
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GIANTS TO PLAY HARDBALL AT TRADE TABLE
Greater Western Sydney reportedly wants two first-round picks from Richmond in exchange for Jacob Hopper.
Hopper is contracted to the Giants until the end of 2023, but is keen to join the Tigers on a seven-year deal along with current teammate Tim Taranto.
The Herald Sun reports the Giants are in search of two first-round picks for Hopper, with Hopper fully aware the Giants could hold him to the last year of his deal.
Richmond currently holds first-round picks for this year and year next year, which will make it difficult to satisfy the Giants to part with both Hopper and Taranto.
The Giants are open to several players departing for the right price this trade period as they look to make a fresh start with plenty of draft capital under new coach Adam Kingsley.
Bobby Hill is set to join Collingwood, while rival clubs are keenly interested in Tanner Bruhn, who was taken with pick No.12 in the 2020 draft.
Richmond could add Taranto and Hopper to a 2023 mix that will include Dustin Martin, who is steadfast he will see out the final two years of his contract at $1.3 million per season.
RECENT RETIREE OPEN TO AFL RETURN
Former Sydney and St Kilda star Dan Hannebery hasn’t ruled out the prospect of a return to AFL level in 2023.
Hannebery called time on his tenure at the Saints this year after managing just 18 games across four seasons to injuries.
Still, AFL reporter Damian Barrett told the Sunday Footy Show there remained “some interest” in Hannebery at other clubs, with Hannebery himself leaving the door ajar for a return.
“To be honest, I’m not too sure. It’s been a tough four years, both mentally and physically,” Hannebery said on Channel Nine.
“We put a lot of work in, but I felt we got it right at the end there. I haven’t really spoken too much to my manager about it or thought too much about it.”
The 31-year-old added: “I’m enjoying retirement, albeit for three weeks but we’ll see how we go. I’m trying not to blow out too much. I’ve been for a few runs so far and I feel okay.
“I’d have to think about it, but at this stage, the body feels pretty good.
“Diplomatically, I’ll say that I’m retired for the moment.”
CATS HONE IN ON YOUNG DUO
Geelong is reportedly honing in on young pair Tanner Bruhn and Ollie Henry after missing out on Jacob Hopper.
Hopper has nominated Richmond as his preferred destination in the trade period, despite interest and an offer from the Cats.
Channel Seven reporter Mitch Cleary says the Cats have now narrowed their focus on Bruhn and Henry.
Bruhn and Henry were selected five picks apart in the 2020 draft, with both top 20 selections.
Bruhn is also attracting interest from North Melbourne, while Henry remains on the outer at Collingwood despite showing plenty of potential at times this season.
