Essendon coach Brad Scott has admitted he was surprised by Bombers' superstar Zach Merrett meeting with Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell.
According to a report from Nine's Tom Morris, Merrett took the meeting with the rival coach on Tuesday night, as he yet again entertains a move away from Essendon, the club he has captained since 2023.
Essendon captain Zach Merrett met with @HawthornFC on Tuesday night, including Sam Mitchell, as he explores a way out of Tullamarine.
— Tom Morris (@tommorris32) September 10, 2025
Details: https://t.co/JJCopXf3R7@FootyonNine @1116sen @9NewsMelb pic.twitter.com/5yb6s837Zj
Merrett was last year courted by St Kilda, who had offered the midfielder a deal so significant he admitted he talked it over with his partner.
But despite the offer leading to Merrett and the Bombers reworking his contract, the 29-year-old has met with the Hawks a year later, with his current coach weighing in on Wednesday night.
MORE: Zach Merrett escapes Essendon? What happens if the captain doesn't go down with the ship?
"Yeah that was a surprise to me. I speak to Zach daily, he was over at my house a couple of days ago having dinner. So I'm well aware of Zach's position... he's as hungry for success as any player that I've ever encountered," Scott told AFL 360.
"He's a man in a rush, he's 29. He's concerned that 'will the young talent mature enough in time for him to enjoy that success?'
"The reality is that this time last year we recommitted to Zach. We felt he was underpaid for someone who was performing at such a high level. So for the second time in three years we changed his remuneration to reflect his brilliant performance and his terrific leadership.
"We committed to him, 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... He's [our] contracted captain. Our club's position is we will not be trading him under any circumstances."
Merrett is reportedly exploring the potential for a move, after another disappointing season that was derailed by injury saw his side finish in the bottom four.