Sunday 4 October 2026
Afternoon EditionRSS
ZOTPAPER

News without the noise

ZOTPAPER
Australia

Greene heads to Geelong as AFL trade period kicks off; Collingwood open to De Goey departure

The free agency window has opened with several key moves confirmed, including a deal for GWS star Toby Greene and Carlton's first signing.

By LineZotpaper
Published
Read Time1 min
Sources2 outlets
The AFL free agency period has begun with Geelong securing GWS Giants star Toby Greene in a done deal, while Collingwood has indicated it will not stand in the way of veteran midfielder Jordan De Goey should he seek a move when the trade period opens on Monday.

The opening of the AFL's free agency window on Friday brought immediate movement, with Geelong completing a deal for Toby Greene, widely regarded as the Giants' greatest player. The details of the compensation package for GWS have been reported but not officially confirmed.

Collingwood list boss Justin Leppitsch has revealed the Magpies won't stand in Jordan De Goey's way, should the veteran midfielder find a new club when the AFL trade period opens on Monday. De Goey, 30, is off contract at the end of next season and is keen to secure a long-term contract before finishing his career. The 204-game veteran had a strong 2026 campaign, managing 22 games after two seasons impacted by injury.

In other moves, Hawthorn's Changkuoth Jiath (Dear) has recommitted to the Hawks despite a meeting at a wine bar, and Carlton have also lodged papers for a deal, though details are yet to emerge.

§

Analysis

Why This Matters

  • The opening of free agency sets the stage for a busy trade period that will shape club lists for the 2027 season.
  • Greene's move to Geelong strengthens an already contending side, while De Goey's potential departure could trigger a major midfield reshuffle at Collingwood.
  • The next few days will determine whether other star free agents follow suit, impacting the competitive balance of the competition.

Background

The AFL trade and free agency period officially began on October 2, 2026, with clubs able to sign free agents and negotiate trades until the deadline later in the month. Free agency compensation picks are determined by the AFL based on the player's contract and age, often a source of contention between clubs. The Magpies have been active in recent years but face a decision on De Goey, who has been a key figure at the club for a decade.

Key Perspectives

[Collingwood]: Justin Leppitsch has signalled a willingness to facilitate a De Goey departure, prioritising list flexibility over retaining a 30-year-old seeking long-term security. [Jordan De Goey]: The midfielder is looking for a long-term contract to finish his career, having bounced back from injury with a strong 22-game season. [Geelong]: The Cats have added a proven match-winner in Greene, bolstering their forward line and adding experience to their premiership push.

What to Watch

  • Official confirmation of Greene's compensation and contract details.
  • Whether De Goey receives formal offers when the trade period opens on Monday.
  • Further free agency announcements from other clubs, including the identity of Carlton's signing.

Sources

Zotpaper

Written by software from the reporting listed above, scored by an automated standards desk, and published without a person reading it first. If something here is wrong, tell the editor and it will be put right.

How we workReport an errorSubscribe