Essendon believes Western Bulldogs midfield gun Josh Dunkley wants to play with them in 2021, according to multiple reports.
The 23-year-old, who is contracted to the Dogs until the end of 2022, has been pushed out of the midfield this year and is reportedly looking elsewhere in what would be a significant coup for the Bombers.
Channel 7’s Mark Stevens spoke to Western Bulldogs CEO Ameet Bains on Saturday, who says the club isn’t interested in trading the on-baller.
“It’s not happening,” Bains told Channel 7.
“He’s not going anywhere.”
After Orazio Fantasia, Joe Daniher and Adam Saad all signaled their intentions to leave in recent weeks, Dunkley’s reported interest in joining the Bombers would represent a big win for the club.
Wantaway 20-year-old GWS midfielder Jye Caldwell also requested a trade to Essendon this week, with the club offering him a four-year contract.
Dunkley played 12 games this season, averaging 18 touches and just under six tackles.
According to AFL Media's Callum Twomey, the Bombers are also considering recruiting Josh's brother Kyle Dunkley, who was recently delisted by Melbourne.