Sydney’s Ollie Florent has been told to consider rival interest despite being under contract until 2029, as the Swans weigh up a blockbuster move to secure Carlton’s Charlie Curnow.
According to AFL.com.au, the Swans have encouraged the 27-year-old to explore his options as they look to assemble a trade package big enough to tempt the Blues into releasing the two-time Coleman Medallist.
While Victorian clubs, including Carlton themselves, are aware Florent could be in play, the midfielder remains intent on staying put.
Florent remains firm amid uncertainty
Florent, who signed a five-year extension just last year, has reportedly made it clear he wants to stay in Sydney despite enduring an inconsistent campaign under Dean Cox, where he was dropped to the VFL and finished with only 16 senior appearances, his lowest tally since debuting in 2017.
Carlton have already rejected a major offer from Geelong involving three first-round draft picks, but Sydney are believed to be preparing an offer built around their current No.11 selection and next year’s first-round pick.
Midfielder James Rowbottom’s name has been mentioned in discussions, though his manager Matt Bain told AFL.com.au: “It’s that time of year, clubs have asked the question and no doubt been ringing Sydney about him. He loves the club and the players, I can’t see it happening.”
While Curnow is thought to prefer a move to Geelong, the Swans are pushing hard to convince him that their project, and their trade hand, make for a compelling alternative.