Young midfielder Jye Caldwell has walked out on GWS, reportedly nominating Essendon as his club of choice.
The 20-year-old Victorian, who was taken with pick 11 in the 2018 National Draft, has struggled to break into the Giants side on a regular basis and has opted to return to his home state in search of more consistent game time.
Speaking on Sportsday, Sam McClure shed some more light on the “staggering” amount of money the Bombers will be paying him.
“Jye Caldwell will join Essendon on a five-year deal on $550,000 per season,” he said.
“He’s played 11 games and hasn’t had more than 16 disposals in any of those 11 games.
“The Giants like him, Essendon will deny (this figure) but every club has the right to do that.
“This is a personal opinion, but I find that a staggering amount of money.”
Caldwell reportedly chose Essendon’s five-year deal over St Kilda, who were offering a four-year contract for the talented on-baller.
Kane Cornes told SEN’s The Captain’s Run on Friday that younger players being handed exorbitant contracts was more of a problem for the game than free agency.
His comments came after Caldwell became the latest Giant to request a move elsewhere, in the same week where free agent Jeremy Cameron signalled his intention to leave and head to Geelong.