GWS Giants say Fremantle Dockers have not inquired about possible Stephen Coniglio trade
Jason McCartney, the Giants’ list boss, says the club has not discussed trading Stephen Coniglio to a rival club as they contemplate the midfielder’s future.
Despite being given the captaincy two years ago, Coniglio has not performed well, and he only played seven games in 2021 because of ankle and toe injuries.
Apparently worth about $1 million per season, the 27-year-old midfielder has five years remaining on his contract. It has been suggested the Giants could attempt to offload him to relieve salary-cap pressure.
Born in WA, Coniglio has naturally been linked with a move to Fremantle, who are seeking to build a team capable of playing finals.
GWS crashed out of the semi-final to Geelong at Optus Stadium during the Brownlow Medal in Western Australia. He is currently on vacation in Broome.
McCartney told Trade Radio on Thursday that Fremantle has not asked the question.
“We have spoken with nearly all the clubs, but it isn’t something we have discussed (and) it’s not something another club has discussed with us.”
In the upcoming trade period – which begins Monday – McCartney indicated that the Giants will not be substantial players.
Following the birth of his first child, Jeremy Finlayson has been permitted to explore his options in order to strengthen his family bond.
A recent meeting between McCartney and Port Adelaide revealed that the 25-year-old is very happy at the club, but that he has some concerns about support for his young family at the moment.
The partner is originally from Port Lincoln, but Kelly has also lived in Melbourne, and his parents live in Brisbane, so we knew the beginning from the beginning.”
Though there may be some interest from clubs interested in moving up the order, the Giants are unlikely to part with the second overall pick in November’s draft.
The AFL trade period begins on October 3.
