Bailey Smith trade rumours: Hawthorn is still keen in the Bulldogs star
If Bailey Smith wants to leave the Western Bulldogs at the end of the season, Hawthorn is planning a move for him.
The Bulldog midfielder, who has been linked with a transfer to Geelong, was said to be thinking about a trade based on his time in the midfield.
The Sporting News has all the latest on Smith’s future, which is expected to be one of the hottest talking points of the AFL player movement period.
Bailey Smith’s most recent news: Hawthorn interest continues – July 5
Despite waning interest in the Bulldogs star, Hawthorn will continue to chase him during the AFL Trade Period.
The 22-year-old struggled for midfield time this season and could find a bigger role at the Hawks, his childhood club.
A transfer to Hawthorn has not been ruled out, according to journalist Sam McClure.
“My understanding is that Hawthorn has not given up the chase… and they’re still willing to part with Pick 3 for him,” McClure explained on the Tradies Podcast.
“I’m always a big fan of going with a guy who’s a known quantity at the AFL level and you’re going to get 10 years out of him, rather than Pick 3, which could be hit or miss.”
“Bailey Smith was one of the best players in the competition not so long ago, I know he’s had his issues since then.”
Smith’s agent, Paul Connors, previously denied that the young star would desire a trade.
“He’ll be at the Bulldogs,” Connors said in September to Gettable.
“It seems like the more we say it, the less people listen.” He will, however, be at the Dogs.
“He’ll get his body back in shape; he’s been tired and sore.” He’ll return, refresh, and reset. He’s looking forward to a successful year. But he will be present.”
Hawthorn emerges as prospective trade destination – August 29 If Smith wants a move, the Western Bulldogs have put their head in the ring.
According to 7NEWS, the Hawks are the second club, after Geelong, to express an interest in the 22-year-old.
The Hawks are eager to build on a promising season in which they defeated Collingwood and Brisbane despite winning only seven games.
Smith, who grew up a Hawks fan, is under contract until the end of the 2024 season.
If demand is not met, the Star will seek a trade – August 21
Smith may request to quit the Western Bulldogs if he is not given greater playing time in the midfield.
Smith’s midfield time had been decreasing until last weekend, according to journalist Tom Morris, and this figure could be a predictor of his future.
“He’s desperate to play midfield,” Morris told SEN Breakfast.
“If he stays at half-forward, he won’t be re-signing after 2024 and will have every opportunity to consider his options during this trade period.” Rival teams are well aware of his desire to play middle.
“According to Champion Data, he played 70% midfield on Sunday, but he’s only played 44% this season.”
“That’s the main factor in determining whether Smith will stay or leave in the next year or two.” That is the main focus on Smith.
“How much midfield time he gets is a big determination for his future.”
Geelong have denied any interest in trading for Bailey Smith – July 25
Geelong has approached the Western Bulldogs to put to rest rumors that they are interested in midfielder Smith.
According to the Herald Sun, a top Geelong official contacted a Bulldogs counterpart to deny any talks with Smith.
SEN earlier reported that the Cats had approached Smith about relocating to the Cattery in 2024.
