Hawthorn defender Jai Serong has attracted the interest of North Melbourne and Essendon as he considers his next move following a frustrating year out of the senior side.
The versatile 193cm youngster is uncontracted and assessing his options after a strong season at VFL level with Box Hill.
According to AFL.com.au’s Riley Beveridge, both the Kangaroos and Bombers have approached Serong’s management, while Sydney has also kept tabs on him after his standout reserves campaign.
VFL form sparks interest
Serong couldn’t break into Hawthorn’s senior team this year but impressed in the VFL, averaging 21.4 disposals and 7.3 marks per match playing across defence and the wing. Still just 21, he has managed 10 AFL appearances since being drafted at pick 53 in 2021, but hasn’t featured at senior level since last year’s semi-final.
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The younger brother of Fremantle star Caleb Serong is one of several Hawks weighing up their futures in the wake of the club’s preliminary final exit. Midfielder Sam Butler has been linked to West Coast, while restricted free agent James Worpel is expected to accept a four-year deal at Geelong.
For Serong, a fresh start at a club prepared to back him with senior minutes could be the opportunity he’s been waiting for. With multiple suitors circling, Hawthorn may soon face a fight to keep hold of the developing defender.