Carlton list manager Nick Austin has provided some insight into the club’s upcoming trade period plans.
The Blues are anticipating a quiet trade period, with Fremantle wingman Blake Acres likely to join, while the club confirms contracted midfielder Paddy Dow is exploring his options.
See Austin’s comments below:
On Harry McKay’s contract extension
“It’s really exciting and it’s a big deal along with Charlie. To have those two key pillars locked away is really exciting for our footy club.”
“It speaks volumes for the environment that has been created where players want to stay and play together. It’s been good negotiations all the way through and we’re happy to have it completed.”
On Blake Acres
“We’ll catch up with Fremantle at some stage today and see where that goes.”
“Blake comes to us as the big bodied experienced wingman that we’ve been looking for and he played some pretty impressive footy in the finals for them and he’ll add to our group straight away. He’s one that we’ll go after.”
On expectations for Liam Jones compensation
“We’re not sure, we’ll leave that to the AFL. The paperwork will go through and once they’ve got the contract, which we’re not privy to, we’ll wait for their formula and see what it spits out.”
On whether they will pursue other deals
“We’re not sure, you never say never, but our aim now is to work our way towards a strong draft hand and bring in some young talent. We’ve had three national draft picks in the last two years.”
“As you mentioned we’ve been pretty active in the trade space in the last 24 months so we’ll go back to the draft and try and bring in some kids.”
On Paddy Dow’s future
“Paddy’s out there and looking to explore his options and get an opportunity.”
“He’s a contracted player, but our midfield dynamic has changed enormously in the last 12 months and unfortunately for Paddy it has meant limited opportunities at the level.
“We’ll work with Paddy and his manager and we’ll see what opportunities are out there and see what we can do for him.”
On Will Setterfield
“Will is out of contract. He’s a required player and we’d like to retain him, but he’s free to explore his options.”