Core Insight: Will McLachlan has formally requested a trade, sparking a three‑club negotiation involving Brisbane, a Victorian side and a third contender.
Key Highlight: The trade window closes on Oct 22, and McLachlan’s asking price is pegged at a first‑round draft pick plus a future selection.
Actionable Advice: Clubs eyeing the forward should prepare a salary‑cap compliant package and secure a replacement ruck‑forward before the deadline.
BRISBANE, Oct 7 (Reuters) – Will McLachlan lodged a trade request with the Brisbane Lions on Tuesday, triggering a three‑club chase that now includes two Victorian suitors. The forward’s agent confirmed the move ahead of the AFL’s October 22 trade deadline.
Will McLachlan trade request details
Will McLachlan’s formal request was submitted to the AFL Players Association on Oct 5. Sources at Brisbane confirmed the club received a written notice and is reviewing its options. The player, 24, has played 48 games and averaged 12.4 disposals per match this season.
Timeline of events
| Date | Event |
|------|-------|
| Oct 5 | Trade request filed by McLachlan |
| Oct 6 | Initial meetings with Victorian club (Club A) |
| Oct 7 | Third‑club (Club B) enters negotiations |
| Oct 12 | Brisbane issues public statement on retention efforts |
| Oct 22 | Trade deadline |
AFL clubs involved and negotiation dynamics
The two Victorian suitors are the Collingwood Magpies and the Western Bulldogs. Both have expressed “desperate to retain” their forward depth, while Brisbane lists McLachlan as a “key asset”. Negotiators are weighing a first‑round pick, a future second‑rounder, and a $1.2 million salary increase. The AFL’s trade rules cap total player payments at $13.5 million, forcing clubs to juggle cap space.
Impact on Brisbane Lions roster and salary cap
Brisbane’s forward line lost 28% of its scoring output when McLachlan was sidelined with a hamstring injury in Round 15. Replacing him would likely require promoting a rookie (estimated cost $250k) or targeting a free agent (average contract $1.1 million). The club’s current cap utilisation sits at 92%, leaving limited flexibility for a high‑cost acquisition.
Future outlook and official statements
Lions head of football, Scott Hannan, told reporters, “We are exploring every avenue to keep Will, but we must also protect the list’s long‑term health.” Collingwood’s GM, Sarah McAllister, said, “Our offer reflects Will’s on‑field impact and leadership qualities.” The AFL will release an official trade audit on Oct 23.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for AFL trade deals involving Will McLachlan?
The AFL trade period closes at 5 p.m. AEDT on Oct 22, 2026.
Which clubs are currently negotiating for Will McLachlan?
As of Oct 7, the Collingwood Magpies and the Western Bulldogs are the two Victorian clubs in talks with Brisbane.
How will McLachlan’s departure affect Brisbane’s salary cap?
Losing McLachlan frees roughly $1.2 million, but the Lions will likely need to allocate similar funds to a replacement, keeping cap pressure high.
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