Essendon Turmoil Deepens as Merrett Weighs Future, Ridley Requests Trade

Essendon insists its captain will not be traded, with two years left on his deal.

Overview

Nine reports Zach Merrett met club leaders on Friday, wants a path to success, and is open to staying if Essendon can contend, with the club keen to extend him beyond 2027.
7NEWS says Essendon will reject any approaches for Merrett, reiterating he remains contracted through 2027.
Coach Brad Scott, via The Agenda Setters, signalled no willingness to trade Merrett or Jordan Ridley despite frustration over results.
Nine reports Ridley has requested a move and prefers Brisbane, though he is signed with Essendon until the end of 2029.
Ruckman Sam Draper, an unrestricted free agent, has told the club he wants to leave and has been linked by reporters to Brisbane, as the Bombers review a 15th-place, injury-hit season with a record 15 debuts.