North Melbourne have decided against pursuing a deal for Leek Aleer, ending days of speculation over the defender’s next move.
The Kangaroos were exploring the possibility of bringing the 24-year-old over from GWS, but have now cooled their interest, with time constraints and logistics playing a key role in their decision.
According to a Fox Sports’ Ben Cotton, it’s understood that senior coach Alastair Clarkson being overseas in Europe has limited North’s ability to advance any serious discussions before the trade window shuts. The late stage of the period has also worked against any last-minute moves.
Aleer set for GWS return amid Saints’ backflip
With North stepping aside, Aleer is now expected to return to the Giants on a revised three-year deal. That outcome follows St Kilda’s shock withdrawal from negotiations last week, a move that may have cost the defender a significant payday. The Saints had reportedly put forward an offer worth around $2.8 million over four years before changing course.
Unless another club swoops in before Wednesday’s deadline, Aleer will be heading back to Sydney to continue his career at GWS, albeit under different terms than first anticipated.
As Ben Cotton reported, “The Kangaroos explored a move for Aleer, but won’t be taking their interest any further.” It brings a swift end to one of the more intriguing late-window trade stories.