Essendon is preparing to be one of the most active clubs come the end of 2026, targeting yet another upcoming free agent – and this offer is set to be their biggest ever.
It was reported weeks ago that Essendon are set to circle Zac Bailey, who is also a 2026 free agent, in a bid to pry him out of Brisbane come the end of next season.
“Essendon is preparing a massive offer to try and lure Zac Bailey,” as reported by the AFL’s Cal Twomey on Gettable.
“My belief is it will be six plus years and around the $1.3 million dollar figure per year.”
MORE: Can Zac Bailey afford to stay at Brisbane? – AFL trade news
Such a long-term offer shows Essendon’s clear intent to secure a true cornerstone player to build their future around, whilst this contract would become the most lucrative in Essendon’s history should Bailey accept the terms.
But now with this year’s trade period over, the Dons have set their eyes on a Hawks star this time – with an even bigger offer put forward.
“The Dons have put forward a deal of at least seven years at more than $1mil a season,” reports the AFL’s Cal Twomey.
“The entirety would nudge $10mil, which would be a club record.”
The Dons were relatively quiet in this year’s trade period – only losing ruckman Sam Draper and acquiring Gold Coast’s Brayden Fiorini.
But the club’s decision to avoid major moves in 2025 may be a purposeful move, with the hope to optimise their salary cap space for the 2026 free agency window.
If either Bailey or Weddle join Essendon, they will instantly acquire a genuine top-end talent for the long-term, which will also be a cornerstone piece to successfully build their new era around.
