Essendon, as they should, have continued to express their firm stance that captain Zach Merrett won’t be traded, after the Bombers’ star was linked to a shock move to Hawthorn.

A meeting with Hawks key figures quickly transformed murmurings surrounding Merrett’s future into more agony for Dons fans, with their five-time (and likely soon-to-be six) best and fairest winner understood to be somewhat frustrated at Tullamarine. 

Merrett’s contract with Essendon won’t expire until the end of 2027, meaning the Bombers – despite what Merrett wants, and what the Hawks can do to try and appease their rival – can force their leader to remain in the red and black.

That scenario undoubtedly creates a fascinating summer for all parties, with Merrett’s role as captain likely coming into question despite him being their list as their best leader and player for 2026. 

The Bombers can deny the thought of Merrett moving clubs this off-season, but that mightn’t stop Hawthorn’s attempts to lure the 29-year-old to the brown and gold.

So, in any world where Essendon’s head could be turned, what trade packages could potentially satisfy a deal that sees Merrett head to Waverley?

We look at four offers that could interest Essendon…

1. The player-for-player swap

Hawthorn trade:Josh WeddleEssendon trade:Zach Merrett

Hawthorn fans will, rightfully, question the idea of trading their young star for a player who turns 30 next month. But if they want to be aggressive, they have to expect the Bombers to do the same.

Even if you move past the unlikely outcome that sees the Hawks place Weddle up for trade, there’s also the fact Weddle too would have to be open to the move. Maybe the lucrative money for Merrett can help his thinking/ 

But Weddle would be the first name on Essendon’s list of targets in any player-for-player swap, given his potential, known quality, and versatility as a damaging asset across any line of the field.

Hawthorn Hawk Josh Weddle, 2023 )Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos)

The Bombers don’t need a midfielder coming the other way if they are to lose Merrett, given the options they have in their pecking order, making Weddle a dream recruit.

Essendon could make it quite simple for the Hawks: Trade Weddle if you want Merrett.