Essendon forward Joe Daniher has requested an AFL trade to Sydney, but the Bombers want to keep their contracted spearhead.
The Bombers have confirmed Daniher, who is contracted until the end of 2020, wants to move to Sydney for a change in lifestyle.
“The club acknowledges the reason behind this request from Joe, however he is a contracted player to the Essendon football club,” Essendon list manager Adrian Dodoro said in a statement.
“He is a very highly regarded player at our club, and we have advised Joe that ultimately we want him playing for the Bombers in 2020.
“We will remain in contact with Joe’s management over the course of the upcoming AFL trade period.”
Daniher had been linked to a move to Sydney since a meeting in August with Swans chief executive Tom Harley, with the Bomber non-committal on his future in recent interviews.
The 2017 All-Australian was restricted to just 11 games over the past two seasons through injury, with a groin issue ending his 2019 season early.
Daniher was eligible as a father-son selection for both Essendon and Sydney before joining the Bombers in the 2012 AFL draft.
His father Anthony played 115 games for the Swans before joining Essendon, where he played 118.
Since joining the Bombers at pick No.10 in the 2012 draft, Daniher has played 104 games, kicking 188 goals.
The 25-year-old will be a free agent at the end of 2020, but the Swans will have to orchestrate a trade to secure his services. Sydney’s top draft selection is pick No.5, although their draft hand might be bolstered if Tom Papley secures a trade to Carlton.
In other AFL moves, dual Richmond flag winner Brandon Ellis has joined Gold Coast as a free agent.
On Saturday, the AFL confirmed Richmond had not matched the Suns’ offer to the restricted free agent, with the Tigers to receive a second-round compensation selection (currently pick No.39).
“In line with our strategy, we’re keen to target players who will complement our young group and are committed to help drive our club forward. Brandon fits that perfectly,” Gold Coast list manager Craig Cameron said.
Meanwhile, Adelaide midfielder Cam Ellis-Yolmen has joined Brisbane as a free agent, with the Crows to receive a third-round draft selection (currently pick No.47) as compensation.
“He’s matured as an individual and we believe he is ready to go to the next level in his footballing career. Cam will help bring more physicality to our game as he is strong and holds his ground well. His addition will help strengthen our midfield,” Brisbane general manager of football David Noble said.
The AFL trade period begins on Monday at 9:00am.
