AFL trade news: Chad Wingard wants to join Hawthorn Hawks

Tom Naghten

AFL trade news: Chad Wingard wants to join Hawthorn Hawks image

Port Adelaide star Chad Wingard looks set to land at Hawthorn if he leaves Alberton this trade period.

Wingard is contracted for next season with the Power but has been testing his value on the market and even met with Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge.

The Dogs were considered the front runners for the 25-year-old but reports emerged on Thursday that he prefers the Hawks.

"He has selected the Hawks as his preferred destination," journalist Sam McClure told Trade Radio.

"Obviously the lure of (Alastair) Clarkson is a significant one. The Hawks just have to get the deal done now."

MORE: All the latest news and rumours on every player and club

AFL.com.au are reporting that a five-year deal is on offer from Hawthorn.

A trade would still need to be worked out between the clubs but the relationship between Wingard and Port has become strained recently, increasing the likelihood he will be playing elsewhere in 2019.

Port Adelaide released a statement on Thursday, confirming they will attempt to do a trade with the Hawks.

"Chad has now informed us of his want to explore the opportunity that Hawthorn have presented him," Port footy manager Chris Davies said.

"However, he is also aware that unless an acceptable trade can be struck, that he will be playing for Port Adelaide in 2019.

"Unless Port Adelaide is suitably compensated, a trade will not happen."

South Australians Izak Rankine and Jack Lukosius are considered some of the best prospects in this year's draft crop, with the Power no doubt keeping close tabs on them

Hawthorn's first pick in this year's draft is 15, though it will likely to take more than that to get Wingard.

It emerged late on Thursday that Hawthorn utility and South Australian Ryan Burton was being considered as part of the potential Wingard deal.

After a breakout 2017, Burton failed to reach the same heights in 2018, but at just 21 he certainly has age on his side and plenty of handy attributes.

Wingard has played 147 games for the Power since being drafted with the sixth selection in the 2011 draft.

He has booted 232 goals, leading the club in that stat in 2015 and 2016.

The silky left-footer has earned two All Australian selections and won the Port Adelaide best and fairest in 2013, just his second season in the AFL.

Hawthorn's first pick in this year's draft is 15, though it will likely to take more than that to get Wingard.

Tom Naghten

Tom Naghten Photo

Tom Naghten is a senior editor at The Sporting News Australia where he's been part of the team since 2017. He predominantly covers boxing and MMA. In his spare time, he likes to watch Robbie Ahmat's goal against the Kangaroos at the SCG in 2000.