SEN news breaker Sam McClure believes the Jake Stringer to Essendon trade could go through today.
After floating the idea on SEN Breakfast yesterday that the West Coast Eagles could be the circuit breaker in the Bombers and Western Bulldogs reaching an agreement over the disgruntled forward, McClure reckons all three clubs are getting closer to breaking bread.
“I think Jake Stringer will find his way to Essendon, I think it could happen as early as today,” he said.
“Picks 25 and 30, as we told you yesterday, could be moved on to the West Coast Eagles for pick 13. That would satisfy all parties. It means the Essendon footy club will get the third of their S’s, they add Stringer to [Adam] Saad and [Devon] Smith.”
After rejecting a package that included the Dons’ pick 11, which has since been moved to Greater Western Sydney, the Bulldogs have maintained they will keep Stringer if a trade can’t be reached. However, the Stringer camp, including his management group, has constantly affirmed he won’t be returning to the 2016 premiers.
The Dogs have held firm on their stance of demanding a first round pick for the 2015 All-Australian, and the Eagles’ pick 13 could fulfill that requirement. It is believed West Coast are keen on rejuvenating their list through the draft, which would mean the club would be willing to acquire more picks.
Stringer is in America on holidays. He has played 89 games and kicked 160 goals since being drafted in 2012 with pick number five.