Zach Merrett has met with Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell as the Essendon captain explores his AFL trade options.
Merrett and Mitchell met on Tuesday night in the wake of another disastrous season for the Bombers.
The star on-baller is the biggest name among several players who could leave the club.
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Ruckman Sam Draper has confirmed he will head to Brisbane as a free agent and defender Jordan Ridley also is said to be keen to join the Lions.
Mitchell was coy at his pre-training media conference on Thursday morning when asked about their interest in Merrett.
“I’m not sure — you’d have to talk to the list management guys about that,” Mitchell said.
“I hope they are working behind the scenes on improving our list. That’s what their job is and I hope they are going about that.”
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Within seconds of the media conference ending, the Nine Network reported that he had met with Merrett.
Gold Coast’s elimination final win over Fremantle last weekend has added further emphasis to the lack of September success at Essendon.
They now have the longest stretch without a finals win, dating back to 2004.
It is understood Merrett’s primary motivation for leaving the Bombers is to play in a premiership team.
Mitchell also met earlier this year with West Coast co-captain Oscar Allen, who since has decided he wants to join Brisbane as a free agent.
AAP