Trade discussions between Geelong and St Kilda for ruckman Rowan Marshall have reached what’s being described as a “tension point,” with both sides disagreeing over whether the Cats should part with a current or future draft pick.
According to Nine’s Tom Morris, the Cats are hesitant to hand over their 2025 selection, believing their Pick 18 in this year’s draft should be sufficient compensation. The Saints, however, reportedly prefer a future pick as part of the deal, even as both clubs maintain cordial negotiations.
“The Rowan Marshall discussions have progressed quite nicely so far,” Morris said on AFL Trade Radio. “I use the word tension — not because there’s disagreements between the clubs — but the tension in this discussion is whether Geelong should give up a pick in this year’s draft or next year’s draft.”
MORE: How Jamarra Ugle-Hagan could be traded to Gold Coast
Saints’ salary stance questioned amid heavy spending
While St Kilda’s list team insists the club’s finances remain sound, Geelong reportedly believes the Saints may need to shed salary to accommodate their ambitious $4.5 million recruitment drive.
“St Kilda would like it to be next year’s draft,” Morris added. “I think Geelong’s view is St Kilda probably needs to offload Marshall and maybe one other player because they’re pretty full on for money.”
Saints talent boss Graeme ‘Gubby’ Allan, however, recently declared the club has “plenty of money” to “still go fishing” and “not a problem” fitting in all their salaries. This stance contrasts sharply with Geelong’s perception of the situation.