GWS list boss Jason McCartney insists the Giants have not spoken about trading Stephen Coniglio to an AFL rival as they weigh up the midfielder’s future as club captain.
Coniglio’s form has dipped since he was appointed skipper two years ago and he managed just seven games in 2021 as he battled ankle and toe injuries.
The 27-year-old midfielder has five years left to run on a contract reportedly worth about $1 million a season and it has been suggested the Giants could attempt to offload him in order to relieve salary-cap pressure.
Originally from Western Australia, Coniglio has naturally been linked with a move to Fremantle, who are trying to build a list capable of playing finals.
“Fremantle haven’t asked the question,” McCartney told Trade Radio on Thursday.
“We’ve spoken to nearly all the clubs … but it’s not something we’ve discussed (and) it’s not something another club’s discussed with us.”
McCartney indicated the Giants will not be major players in the trade period, which begins on Monday.
However, key forward Jeremy Finlayson has been given permission to explore his options as he seeks more family support after the birth of his first child.
The 25-year-old recently met with Port Adelaide.
“He’s very happy at the club, just has some concern for support around their young family now,” McCartney said.
“I know his partner Kelly is from Port Lincoln initially, but she’s lived in Melbourne as well, and Jeremy’s parents now live in Brisbane, so it was a pretty open book.”
The Giants are unlikely to give up pick two in November’s national draft despite some interest from clubs that are interested in moving up the order.
“We’ve got pick two, we’ve got pick 13 and we’ve got an academy player in Josh Fahey, who we like, out of Canberra,” McCartney said.
“We might only have the three picks and that might be our list changes this year.”
AAP
Get all the latest Canberra news, sport, entertainment, lifestyle, competitions and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Canberra Daily Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
