Clayton Oliver Meets with Geelong Amidst Transfer Speculation

Melbourne Football Club‘s star midfielder Clayton Oliver is reportedly in talks with Geelong officials as the latter aims to entice him away from his current team. On Tuesday, Oliver is set to meet with key figures from Geelong, including Chief Executive Steve Hocking and Football Boss Andrew Mackie, in an attempt to join their squad.

This development was first disclosed by The Age’s journalist Sam McClure, sparking significant interest in the Australian Football League (AFL) community. Melbourne Football Club, upon learning about the planned meeting, expressed through a statement that Oliver remains crucial to their team and is expected to continue with them in the coming seasons. Alan Richardson, Melbourne’s football boss, stated, “Clayton is an important player for our club and remains a contracted, required member of the team. We look forward to seeing Clayton in the red and blue next year and beyond.” Oliver still has six years left on his Melbourne contract, which sees him earning over $1 million annually.

Sources close to Oliver have confirmed the meeting but desired to remain anonymous to speak freely. Despite reaching out, neither Geelong officials nor Oliver’s management were available for comments on the situation.

The Geelong club’s interest in Oliver comes after their commitment to a first-round draft pick deal for Bailey Smith, following his discontent with the Western Bulldogs. The situation develops amidst Melbourne showing reluctance to trade Oliver, though his challenging 2024 season, marred by off-field issues and injuries, has fostered some speculation about his future.

Public opinions within the AFL community differ regarding Oliver’s potential move. ESPN commentator Gerard Whateley voiced, “My personal view, it’s time for these two parties to separate,” suggesting the possibility of a mutual decision benefiting both Oliver and Melbourne. Meanwhile, Richmond’s Jack Riewoldt believes “if we’re going to see the best of Clayton Oliver going forward, it’s going to be in different colours.”

In a related AFL player movement, Sydney Swans’ Chad Warner might request a transfer to Western Australia, following his team’s recent grand final loss. Speculation arises that Warner and his partner wish to return home. “West Australian clubs are of the belief it is his intention to return home at the end of next year,” reported by Herald Sun’s Jon Ralph.