Melbourne veteran Jack Viney will travel to Perth on Tuesday to tour West Coast’s facilities as he considers a move away from the Demons.
The 32-year-old has been told his opportunities in midfield could be reduced next season as Melbourne gives greater responsibility to younger players. He has therefore begun exploring his options ahead of the trade period.
Viney met West Coast officials in Melbourne last week and was impressed by the proposal put forward by the club’s coaching staff. His only AFL appearance this year came in Melbourne’s wildcard final against Carlton.
Essendon is also considering Viney as an experienced replacement for captain Zach Merrett, who is expected to move to Hawthorn. The Bombers are attracted not only to his physical presence in the midfield but also to his leadership, character and standards on the training ground.
Essendon’s interest may have increased after Adelaide midfielder Luke Pedlar chose to seek a move to Port Adelaide. The 24-year-old had been a target for the Bombers but has struggled to establish himself at the Crows, making 49 appearances since being selected 11th in the 2020 national draft.
Pedlar, who has also dealt with a series of injuries, opted to remain in his home state. His decision follows Port Adelaide’s loss of free-agent midfielder Zak Butters to the Western Bulldogs.
Essendon reshapes its midfield
New Essendon coach Mark McVeigh is weighing several midfield options, with Brisbane premiership player Sam Marshall and Geelong’s Jack Bowes also attracting the Bombers’ interest.
The Bombers could face further change in defence, with contracted player Jordan Ridley drawing interest from Geelong and North Melbourne. Ridley has played 26 AFL matches across the past three seasons.
Melbourne midfielder Trent Rivers is also seeking a move with one year remaining on his contract. Brisbane is of interest because his partner is from the city, while West Coast has also shown interest.
The trade period begins next Monday, although discussions over possible moves have been continuing for several months. The free-agency window opens on Friday, with Toby Greene, Ben King, Lachie Neale and Butters among the players seeking moves as free agents.
