“Never say never”: Wines’ manager speaks to North Melbourne interest

Port Adelaide midfielder Ollie Wines’ manager has responded to interest in his client from North Melbourne, refusing to rule out a trade.

While Nick Gieschen, of Connors Sports Management, stated Wines was currently focused on chasing an “elusive” premiership at the Power, he did say “you can never say never”.

Wines was linked to the Kangaroos last week by AFL Media’s Cal Twomey, who told Gettable that the Roos were seeking experience.

“But there is a link there with (Roos footy boss) Todd Viney. The Viney and Wines families are very, very tight dating back to their draft year in 2012,” Twomey said.

“Would he want to leave Port or would they let him go, I’m not sure, but (North) is interested and they’re also interested in a few others and it’s something they need to do.”

Hawthorn great Luke Hodge and Adelaide premiership captain Mark Bickley had previously endorsed a Roos play to trade for Wines.

The 29-year-old has two years to run on his contract at Port Adelaide, the club he was drafted to back in 2012.

Speaking to Gettable on Thursday, Gieschen was asked about the prospect of Wines taking up North Melbourne’s interest.

“To be honest, it’s not something I’ve spoken to him at great length about,” Gieschen said.

“I know his name has been mentioned and I think in general, North would potentially, from what I’m hearing, like to add some experience senior player sand he’s someone recognised as a great individual first and foremost, a great leader and someone that has played high level footy and probably that age profile too…

“At the moment it’s been great to see him get some more inside midfield time with a couple of injuries they (Port Adelaide) have had, it’s probably not something on his radar right at the moment, but you never say never, things can change.

“But at the moment, I think it’s totally focused on Port Adelaide… and hopefully getting that elusive premiership they’ve been chasing.”

Wines has played 239 games since debuting in 2013 and is on track to hit the 250 milestone late in the home and away season.

He last signed a contract extension in 2020, adding an extra four years to his deal to take him through to 2026 at Alberton.

Wines has never played on the final Saturday of September at AFL level.