Bark of Betrayal: The Shocking Trade of M Star s Wounded Dog

Tom Lynch, the former Gold Coast Sun and Richmond championship player, has been identified as a possible recruit by two Victorian clubs that are eager to add another important player to their roster while the premiership window is still open.

The 31-year-old has only appeared in eight games since the 2022 season ended. It is unfortunate because he had 63 goals from just 19 games in 2022. He has battled foot and hamstring issues for several seasons.

Speaking on The Sunday Footy Show on Channel 9, Damian Barrett expressed the opinion that, given they struggle with their own front lines, Collingwood and Melbourne will be closely examining the possibility of signing Lynch for the upcoming campaign.

Lynch, whose contract at Punt Road expires at the end of the following season, may be aiming to maximise his football career as doubts about his ability to play on the field persist.

Barrett stated on Sunday morning that he thought Tom Lynch would be of interest to Collingwood and Melbourne, or at least taken into consideration, since both teams have a history of needing a major forward for the upcoming season.

“I think there will be interest in him; nevertheless, a $1.5 million price tag on his associated contract the following year makes him appear to be a fake. They wouldn’t have to give up much; in my opinion, keeping the same portion of their pay will be sufficient.

Barrett acknowledged that money would be a barrier for Craig McRae’s team if they attempted to sign him, when questioned if the Magpies would be able to give him his pay cheque.

Barrett continued, “No, they couldn’t; they’ve got to find a way to pay that. Again, both clubs have stated publicly since the end of their season that they want key forwards and established ones to stay with them next year.”

Lynch is one of the seven original Gold Coast Suns players who have remained on an AFL playing roster since the team’s founding in 2011. Lynch has managed 220 AFL games since his debut.

At the close of 2018, the 2016 All-Australian relocated to Richmond, where he won two premierships in his first two seasons wearing the yellow and black.

“Time is of the essence” | 00:53 BULLDOGS STAR’S GO FURTHER WEST FIRMS

Bailey Smith, the star of the Western Bulldogs, is still unsigned, so speculation over his future is still prevalent. However, a recent report has confirmed what many people initially thought.

Early in the year, Hawthorn was rumoured to be moving to either Collingwood or Geelong, but in the last few months, it appears that the door has closed on the Magpies and has somewhat opened for Hawthorn.

However, Geelong is still comfortably ahead in the race for the 23-year-old.

Jake Niall of The Age highlighted on Sunday morning that Smith will undoubtedly travel down the highway to resume his career in 2025.

Is it time to rebuild the list, Dees? | 00:39
Smith’s ACL injury, Hawthorn’s prior involvement in trade rumours this coming off-season, and, most importantly, Geelong’s greater need for the midfield player than the Bulldogs and Hawks will likely be major factors in his presumed move to the Cattery, according to Niall.

This offseason, Sam Mitchell’s Hawks have been connected to Josh Battle, Harry Perryman, and Tom Barrass. Given that the two defenders appear to be the team’s top targets, it’s difficult to see the brown and gold truly pushing for Smith’s services.

Additionally, a player with Smith’s level of public recognition and prominence as a role model has the benefit of Geelong’s longstanding premium club culture.

It is important to recognise the connection between his personal strong links to Cotton On and those of Geelong, as he is also an advocate for the business.

An announcement on Smith’s future is unlikely to occur until after the Bulldogs’ finals campaign, given they are currently scheduled to play in September. However, as many have been saying for months, Chris Scott appears ready to accept the four-time 22 Under 22 player.