Wantaway Essendon captain Zach Merrett could snub the club's best-and-fairest night in a nuclear option to force a trade.
The 29-year-old star is keen for a move to Hawthorn for the 2026 season - chasing success at the Hawks while foreseeing future struggles at the Bombers.
Essendon have publicly stated, via coach Brad Scott, that they have no plans to trade the skipper, with his contract not expiring until the end of 2027.
But Merrett, who will likely win his sixth Crichton Medal at Essendon's awards night on October 2, is considering not attending the event in line with his wish to depart the club, according to Tom Morris.
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If Merrett avoids the best-and-fairest night, making a statement about his feelings toward the Bombers, it's hard to see the current skipper playing for the team in 2026.
Any trade for Merrett would likely require the Hawks to stump up around two first-round picks for a player that is 30 next season, but who is in his prime as a footballer.
However, in an interview with AFL 360 on Wednesday night, Bombers coach Scott explained why the club isn't entertaining trading Merrett.
“The reality is that this time last year, we recommitted to Zach,” Scott said.
“So, for the second time in three years, we changed his remuneration to reflect his brilliant performance and his terrific leadership.
“So, we committed to him and he committed to us. I came and made a commitment to the club. I intend to see my commitment through, and I expect our captain to do the same.”