The future of Carlton superstar Charlie Curnow remains one of the biggest talking points of the 2025 AFL trade period, and Fox Footy’s Leigh Montagna believes it’s on the Sydney Swans to make sure the blockbuster move happens.
Despite being contracted to the Blues until the end of 2029, Curnow has reportedly made clear his desire to move, with Sydney emerging as the frontrunner to land the dual Coleman Medallist.
Geelong were initially linked but face their own list challenges, while Gold Coast have ruled themselves out as they chase Melbourne’s Christian Petracca.
Deadline day drama looms
Swans list boss Chris Keane confirmed on AFL Trade Radio that the club had “limited” discussions with Carlton so far, but admitted there were “some complexities” in getting the deal done. He also ruled out parting with key players Will Hayward and James Rowbottom.
Fox Sports’ David Zita suggested two first-round picks, including Pick 10 this year and a future first, would be the “starting point” for Curnow. Montagna, though, argued Sydney may need to sweeten the deal.
“I think this is on Sydney to get this deal done,” Montagna said on Fox Footy’s Trading Day. “They desperately need Charlie Curnow to be a premiership threat in the next couple of seasons. I think they’ll find a way to get this done. It’ll probably still have to include a player, but the two first-round picks for me is not far off.”
Montagna added that a third club could yet become involved to help the Blues secure a player in return, setting up what’s shaping to be a tense, last-minute deal before the trade deadline.