AFL player manager Tom Petroro has updated the situation surrounding two of his clients, in-demand restricted free agent Tom Rockliff and potential trade target Todd Goldstein.
While Petroro confirmed that Carlton and Port Adelaide were both in the running to recruit Rockliff this off-season, he says that it is still not a certainty the 27-year-old on-baller leaves the Brisbane Lions.
“Tom’s got a big decision to make,” Petroro told SEN’s Crunch Time.
“He became a father last week and then he had shoulder surgery this week so he hasn’t really had an opportunity to go and talk to the suitors as such.
“It’s not a fait accompli that he is going. I’ve been in constant dialogue with Dom Ambrogio, Brisbane’s list manager, and a little bit of talking to (Lions football manager) David Noble as well.
“We have almost got two weeks to work our way through it. I would think closer to that window opening, we would have a fair idea as to what he is going to do.”
As for Goldstein, Petroro says that he would be surprised if the North Melbourne ruckman was traded to another team, despite the 29-year-old still having over two years left on a deal believed to be worth around $850,000 per season for the rebuilding club.
“I’d be really surprised if he leaves,” he said.
“I have been in constant contact with (North footy manager) Cameron Joyce and (list manager) Mick McMahon. I don’t see Goldy moving through this period.
“You never say never and you have always got to go in open-minded, but I would be very surprised.”
The NAB AFL Free Agency Period kicks off on Friday October 6, while the Trade Period starts three days later.