Melbourne are set to land Hawthorn speedster Changkuoth Jiath on a three-year deal as new coach Steven King continues to overhaul the Demons' list.
It had emerged in recent days that Hawthorn were open to letting Jiath explore his options, and the Dees have seemingly wasted no time in getting their man.
A dynamic player that provides blistering pace out of the back half, Jiath struggled for consistent opportunities in Sam Mitchell's side, only featuring in the Hawks' three finals in 2025 as a substitute.
But SEN's Sam Edmund reported on Tuesday that Jiath is set to get a fresh start at Melbourne in 2026.
MORE: King adds further Geelong feel to Melbourne coaching panel
"CJ has agreed to join Melbourne on a three-year deal, but a trade needs to be agreed, of course." Edmund reported on X.
CJ has agreed to join Melbourne on a three-year deal, but a trade needs to be agreed, of course. https://t.co/P3ier3DCk0
— Sam Edmund (@Sammy__Edmund) October 14, 2025
While a trade negotiation could hold up the move becoming official, Seven's Mitch Cleary expects a deal will get done before Wednesday's deadline.
"Changkuoth Jiath wants to play for Melbourne. Expect both parties to come to an agreement before tomorrow’s deadline," Cleary reported on X.
Changkuoth Jiath wants to play for Melbourne. Expect both parties to come to an agreement before tomorrow’s deadline. https://t.co/JnUDQOdoH5
— Mitch Cleary (@cleary_mitch) October 14, 2025
Since accepting the Melbourne job, new Demons coach Steven King has emphasised implementing a more uptempo game style for the Dees in 2026, something the electric Jiath would be able to help facilitate.
“I want our players to have freedom to get after the game, attack it, give our forwards a bit more of a look, faster with even numbers, and get after the game," King said at his introductory press conference in September.
King has been quick to shake things up at Melbourne, with a meeting about a change of role for Clayton Oliver setting in motion an imminent exit for the Demons legend.
Premiership hero Steven May was also told to explore his options just days after King was officially announced as coach, but as it stands it looks like the 33-year-old will remain with the Dees due to a lack of suitors emerging.