Vic Club’s Eleventh Hour Move: Approaches Rival AFL Captain in Trade Shock

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Vic Club’s Eleventh Hour Move: Approaches Rival AFL Captain in Trade Shock

As the AFL trade period approaches its conclusion, Melbourne has made a surprising overture towards St Kilda captain Jack Steele. Earlier this month, St Kilda inquired about Steele’s willingness to consider a transfer, but the 29-year-old firmly stated his commitment to the Saints, the club he has represented for nine years.

Major Shift in Melbourne’s Midfield

According to reports from Foxfooty.com.au, Melbourne has recently reached out to Steele to explore his interest in a move. This comes on the heels of significant changes in their roster, particularly with new coach Steven King looking to reshape the midfield.

Key Departures:
- Christian Petracca is expected to move to Gold Coast.
- Clayton Oliver is set to join GWS.

These departures leave Melbourne with a considerable gap in their midfield, which Steele could help fill effectively. King’s approach demonstrates the club’s intent to recalibrate its on-field dynamics by adding experienced leadership and defensive stability.

Steele’s Contractual Situation

Jack Steele is currently under contract until the end of 2027, following a deal signed in 2021. If a transfer to Melbourne were to occur, it would likely necessitate some financial maneuvering given Steele’s salary cap implications.

Impact of Recent Additions at St Kilda

St Kilda recently signed Sam Flanders, which might complicate Steele’s role as he fights for midfield minutes. Despite this, Steele has shown unwavering loyalty to the Saints, indicating that he may be open to relinquishing the captaincy he has held exclusively for the past four seasons.

Steele’s Career Highlights:
- 202 career AFL games over 11 seasons.
- 185 of those games played with St Kilda since joining in 2016.

As St Kilda prepares for the upcoming season, they have also welcomed new players including Tom De Koning, Jack Silvagni, and Liam Ryan, while reserve ruck Max Heath has moved to Melbourne. The club is also waiting on a potential last-minute transfer for star ruck Rowan Marshall to Geelong.

The situation is fluid, and Steele’s potential move to Melbourne adds an intriguing dimension to the ongoing trade negotiations. As the clock ticks down on the trade period, all eyes will be on Steele’s next move.