7NEWS sports reporter Tom Morris has named player agent Nick Gieschen as the most powerful and influential figure at Essendon, surpassing club president Andrew Welsh, CEO Tim Roberts, and even the future coach. Gieschen, who is not on the club's payroll, represents two key Bombers players: former captain Zach Merrett and star defender Jordan Ridley. Both players are seeking moves away from the club, with Ridley wanting to relocate to Queensland and Merrett again pushing for a transfer to Hawthorn.
Gieschen's Influence and Client List
Morris explained on Wednesday night's edition of The Agenda Setters that Gieschen's role as a negotiator is crucial for Essendon's future. Merrett dumped his former manager, Tom Petroro, in January this year following the fallout of his failed trade request to Hawthorn last year. He then returned to his previous manager, Nick Gieschen, the son of AFL icon Jeff Gieschen. Jeff coached Richmond from 1997 to 1999, served as the AFL's umpires boss, and played at the highest level, while his brother Rye Gieschen is head of recruiting at Richmond.
Gieschen's influence extends beyond Essendon. His management group also represents Gold Coast's Ben King, who is weighing up whether to stay with the Suns or join Hawthorn. 7NEWS chief AFL reporter Mitch Cleary remarked, "Unleash the Giesch 2.0," referencing the famous catch-cry when Nick's father was coaching Richmond.
Potential Trades and Contract Negotiations
Cleary wondered whether the Hawks could land both Merrett and King if the latter also decides to move, but Morris thought that scenario was unlikely. "That would force Nick to enact Plan B," Morris said. "He will be also trying to get the best deal for Essendon as well. That's his role as a negotiator in all of this." That deal for the Bombers will shape the future of the club, as Essendon insiders begin the mission to make the Bombers a destination club again.
Other AFL News
In other AFL news, former Carlton list boss Nick Austin has confirmed tensions existed between former coach Michael Voss and star forward Charlie Curnow during their time together at the Blues. Speaking to News Corp, Austin said Curnow "had some things that Michael would have liked to be different, and vice versa." The revelation contradicts the club's previous denials of any falling out between the pair.
Brisbane Lions veteran Ryan Lester is set to sign another one-year deal if he chooses to play on into 2027. The popular defender has signed approximately multiple one-year contracts and remains vital to the Lions' defensive structure, typically taking the opposition's most dangerous forward.
Carlton's Adam Saad is unlikely to remain at the Blues next season despite wanting to play on. The out-of-contract defender is keen to continue his career, most likely at a Victorian club.
Meanwhile, GWS Giants midfielder Tom Green's future remains unclear, with the club offering various contract structures including a reported seven-year option. Tasmania has also expressed interest, while Cleary said there were still "talks to be had." As for Green's teammate Toby Greene, Cleary said he had Geelong as favourites to land the Giants' spiritual leader.
