New Melbourne coach Steven King has made it known that he is looking to overhaul the Demons’ style of play heading into 2026, and the latest target for the Dees may just be a sign of that.

In recent days it has emerged that Hawthorn are open to letting half-back/winger Changkuoth Jiath explore his options, with the Demons now potentially at the front of the queue. 

Jiath is a dynamic player that provides blistering pace out of the back half, but has struggled for consistent opportunities in Sam Mitchell’s side, only featuring in the Hawks’ three finals in 2025 as a substitute. 

SEN’s Sam Edmund reported the Dees’ interest on Tuesday.

MORE: King adds further Geelong feel to Melbourne coaching panel

“Melbourne has an interest in Changkuoth Jiath,” Edmund posted on X.

“Jiath has an agreement with the Hawks to explore the market in search of greater playing opportunity.

“The Demons have emerged as a potential suitor for the rebounding defender, but there is no offer yet.

“Jiath has two years to run on his Hawks contract, but could join a newlook Melbourne side farewelling Clayton Oliver, Christian Petracca and Judd McVee.”

Melbourne has an interest in Changkuoth Jiath.

Jiath has an agreement with the Hawks to explore the market in search of greater playing opportunity.

The Demons have emerged as a potential suitor for the rebounding defender, but there is no offer yet.

Jiath has two years to run…

— Sam Edmund (@Sammy__Edmund) October 14, 2025

Since accepting the Melbourne job, new Demons coach Steven King has emphasised implementing a more uptempo game style for the Dees in 2026, something the electric Jiath would be able to help facilitate.

“I want our players to have freedom to get after the game, attack it, give our forwards a bit more of a look, faster with even numbers, and get after the game,” King said at his introductory press conference in September.

King has been quick to shake things up at Melbourne, with a meeting about a change of role for Clayton Oliver setting in motion an imminent exit for the Demons legend.

Premiership hero Steven May was also told to explore his options just days after King was officially announced as coach, but as it stands it looks like the 33-year-old will remain with the Dees due to a lack of suitors emerging.