Geelong has made a formal move for Hawthorn free agent James Worpel, with a four-year offer that could see the midfielder in Cats colours by season’s end.
The deal, reported by Herald Sun journalist and Fox Footy’s First Crack host Jay Clark, is said to be as lucrative as Hawthorn’s offer, but with a clearer role in mind.
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Worpel, 25, is set to hit free agency after eight seasons and 142 games with the Hawks. He signed a two-year extension in 2023 but has now emerged as one of the most in-demand midfielders on the market.
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According to Clark, the Cats’ pitch is aimed at bolstering their on-ball brigade alongside Tom Atkins, and has made Worpel “seriously reconsider” his future.
“Geelong has tabled a four-year offer for Worpel, which was considered an attractive pitch and matches the contract Hawthorn,” Clark said.
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Melbourne and St Kilda have also shown interest throughout the season, but Geelong’s need for a hard-edged clearance-winner may offer Worpel the most defined role.
While the Hawks are keen to retain him, they’re also understood to be looking elsewhere, reportedly eyeing names like Harley Reid and Zak Butters as long-term targets.
With big questions being asked of Hawthorn’s midfield depth, Worpel’s departure could leave a significant hole, one the Cats are eager to capitalise on.