North Melbourne’s Ben McKay could find his way to Essendon, according to SEN’s Sam Edmund.
The 25-year-old is out of contract with the Kangaroos this year and will become a restricted free agent at the conclusion of the 2023 season.
The Bombers are crying out for a key defender and according to Edmund will get that in the form of McKay.
However, the sticking point is the compensation the Roos will receive given they will also be seeking an assistant package from the AFL.
“I think that’s the landing spot for Ben McKay, the Bombers,” Edmund said on SEN Breakfast.
“This is where it gets more interesting though, is what the compensation will spit out for a North Melbourne side who are going to formally apply for special assistance.
“Then we’re going to get something up the pointy end, potentially.”
Have the Kangaroos resigned themselves to the fact that McKay will be leaving this trade period?
“Yes,” Edmund replied.
“I think it would be a shock if he stayed, a big shock. That’s probably the best way to put it.”
He again floated the compo available, referencing Joe Daniher’s move from Essendon to Brisbane in late 2020 which landed the Dons pick 7 in the draft.
Daniher had initially signed a three-year deal with the Lions, before extending by a further two seasons just one year in.
“Then the compensation (involved). Look at Joe Daniher’s move to Brisbane, that had hair all over it when his contract was renegotiated,” said Edmund.
“What compensation did that spit out? Top tier.”
McKay has also been linked with Port Adelaide and Hawthorn, but Edmund believes he will end up at The Hangar.
Having been selected with pick 21 in the 2015 draft, McKay has played 66 games in the royal blue and white.