Bailey Smith deal speculation: Hawthorn is still interested in the Bulldogs star
Hawthorn is considering a move for Bailey Smith if he wants to leave the Western Bulldogs at the end of the season.
The Bulldogs midfielder, who has been linked with a move to Geelong, is thought to be considering a trade based on his time in the midfield.
The Sporting News has the most up-to-date information on Smith’s future, which is expected to be one of the most hotly debated topics during the AFL player movement period.
Bailey Smith’s latest news: Hawthorn interest remains – July 5
Despite dwindling interest in the Bulldogs star, Hawthorn will pursue him during the AFL Trade Period.
This season, the 22-year-old struggled for midfield time and could find a bigger role at his childhood club, the Hawks.
According to journalist Sam McClure, a move to Hawthorn is not out of the question.
“From what I understand, Hawthorn hasn’t given up on him… and they’re still willing to part with Pick 3 for him,” McClure said 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 disputed that his client wanted a trade.
“He’ll be at the Bulldogs,” Connors told Gettable in September.
“It seems like the more we say it, the less people listen.” However, he will be at the Dogs.
“He’ll get his body back in shape; he’s been tired and sore.” He’ll come back, refresh, and reset. He is looking forward to a prosperous year. But he’ll be there.”
Hawthorn emerges as a potential trading location – August 29 The Western Bulldogs have placed their hat in the ring if Smith wants to move on.
According to 7NEWS, the Hawks are the second club to express an interest in the 22-year-old, following Geelong.
The Hawks are looking to build on a good season in which they defeated Collingwood and Brisbane despite only winning seven games.
Smith, a lifelong Hawks supporter, is under contract through the 2024 season.
If desire is not met, the Star will look for a trade – August 21 Smith may request to leave the Western Bulldogs if he is not offered more midfield playing time.
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.” Smith’s primary concentration is on this.
“How much midfield time he gets is a big determination for his future.”
Geelong has denied any interest in moving for Bailey Smith – July 25 Geelong has approached the Western Bulldogs to put any speculation about a trade for midfielder Smith to rest.
The Herald Sun reports that a top Geelong official contacted a Bulldogs counterpart to deny any talks with Smith.
The Cats have already approached Smith about relocating to the Cattery in 2024, according to SEN.
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