Carlton have secured young midfielder Campbell Chesser from West Coast, completing a deal that sends pick No.41 to the Eagles in exchange for the former first-round selection.
The 22-year-old, taken with pick No.14 in the 2021 draft, has signed a two-year deal at Ikon Park after opting to return home to Victoria.
Despite an injury-interrupted run in Perth, Chesser finished the 2025 season strongly, featuring in West Coast’s final four matches and showcasing the speed and flair that first caught recruiters’ eyes.
Blues back young midfielder’s potential
Carlton head of list management Nick Austin said the club was “so pleased” to have landed Chesser, calling him a player with both upside and proven class.
“The club is very optimistic about the future of Campbell at Carlton,” Austin told AFL.com.au. “Overcoming an ankle injury late in the year, the form he displayed at the end of the season showed us he has the quality and class to perform at the elite level.
“With explosive speed and endurance, his outside run is a clear standout in his game, with the ability to quickly transition to both ends of the ground – all traits that will perfectly complement our side.”
Chesser, who turned down a two-year extension from the Eagles, is expected to slot into a midfield led by Patrick Cripps and Sam Walsh.
West Coast head of list management Matt Clarke said the club was “disappointed to lose Campbell after investing four years into his development” but respected his wish to move closer to home.
“Adding another second-round draft pick adds to our already strong hand in this year's draft and provides us with more flexibility and options,” Clarke said.