Sydney’s Aliir Aliir met with representatives from Port Adelaide in South Australia when he was considering a long-term offer from the club.
Foxfooty.com.au The 26-year-old is seriously considering a three-year contract with triggers for a fourth season.
He flew in and spoke face-to-face with members of the Force’s football division, including Footy’s chief Chris Davies.
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The Swans initially asked for a Port Adelaide ruckman, but the club has made it clear that they do not intend to trade any of their great men.
Instead, sources say that the second round pick of port (option 29) is the most likely piece of trade if Aliir decides to officially request a transfer.
This would be a blow to Orazio Fantasia, who is no closer to Port. The club originally suggested this pick, but it has been rejected by the bombers who believe the striker is worth between picks 15 and 20.
Tom Harley, Sydney CEO, spoke about SEN early that morning and was asked if the agile defender would be at the club next year.
“He’s a contract player and there was some talk about Aliir and Port early in the trading period,” said Harley.
“He had his exit interview a couple of times
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I expected Aliir to be part of it weeks ago. “
Later in the day, top manager Paul Connors suggested that Aliir had been tempted by the promise of a consistent role on Ken Hinkley’s team.
“He’s a free agent next year,” Connors continued AFL Trade Radio.
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“He had a difficult year in which he filled various positions. I like it as a marker that bounces back half the back.
“I know the swans to keep it, but we would be open to options, one could be Port Adelaide.”
Should power land both Aliir and Fantasia, it will be a successful trading period for a team that had an excellent 2020 campaign and had seven top 30 picks in the past three seasons.
“They have been very active and are building again on the run,” said Kangaroo David King Trading day.
“I know we were talking before our eyes late last year about the swans doing it – and we’re only just beginning to see that showing up now – Port Adelaide is doing a great job.”
St. Kilda Champion Leigh Montagna added, “That’s why Port now has the luxury of targeting players … because they’ve pinned their kids down for the past two seasons.
“It’s been a really nice year for Port Adelaide to replenish some hand-picked players and they can still go to draft next year.”
– With Ben Waterworth
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