Essendon is reportedly preparing a massive contract offer for West Coast Eagles young gun Harley Reid, according to Nine's Eddie McGuire. Speaking on the Eddie and Jimmy podcast, McGuire claimed the Bombers have $2.5 million available in their salary cap, which could be used to lure the star back to Victoria.
Reid is contracted with the Eagles until the end of 2026, but speculation about a potential move home continues to swirl. The Age reported on Wednesday that both Essendon and Richmond are well-positioned to make a play for Reid, given each club holds two first-round selections in this year's draft, which could be used to sweeten a trade with West Coast.
Former Eagle Will Schofield dismissed the talk as “outside noise,” telling foxfooty.com.au that it's too early to judge a second-year player after just one round. “How would anyone have any idea? Why can't that be a kid who hasn't found what it takes to be consistent?” Schofield said.
In other AFL news, GWS Giants defender Leek Aleer is expected to play for a rival club in 2026, with the Brisbane Lions emerging as a potential suitor. Aleer, drafted with pick 15 in 2021, has managed only 12 matches in three seasons and is seeking greater senior opportunities.
