New Carlton recruit Adam Cerra has lifted the lid on why he chose the Blues over Melbourne, who he admits made a “very impressive” pitch to win his services.
Cerra landed at Ikon Park on his 22nd birthday after a trade was finalised with Fremantle on Thursday, who received pick six as well as a future third-round pick in the deal.
He revealed the Blues were always his first choice, even as the 2021 premiers looked to make a move for the on-baller.
“I did consider Melbourne,” Cerra admitted on Sportsday.
“I wouldn’t say their Grand Final success would’ve changed my decision, I knew from the start what I was basing my decisions on and I wanted to be somewhere where I can build and be part of something special and somewhere where I can grow to be my best self.
“Carlton was a match from the earlier days when I requested a trade, I remember saying to my manager that they were my number one preference and they’ve been great to me.
“I gave Melbourne the opportunity to pitch and they were very impressive, they’ve got a very good football club and will be successful for a long time and they were grateful I gave them the opportunity.
“I sent them a message when I did nominate Carlton thanking them for their pitch and I hope to build something very similar at the Blues.”
Cerra played 18 games for Fremantle in 2021, averaging an impressive 23 disposals and five marks, finishing fifth in their best and fairest.
The former no.5 draft pick tallied 76 games across four seasons with the Dockers.