Western Bulldogs’ Rory Lobb to Request Trade to Fourth AFL Club

Western Bulldogs’ towering figure, Rory Lobb, is set to shake up the AFL landscape by requesting a trade to a fourth club as the 2024 season draws to a close. This news comes from Nine’s esteemed reporter, Tom Morris, who sheds light on Lobb’s imminent move.

The 31-year-old, who found himself out of favor under the helm of coach Luke Beveridge at Whitten Oval, is poised to make his desires clear at the end of the current season. This would mark Lobb’s third trade request in just four off-seasons, a testimony to his eagerness for a fresh start.

Lobb’s tenure at the Western Bulldogs, which commenced merely two years ago following a trade from Fremantle, appears to be reaching its conclusion. Despite having two years left on his contract, Lobb is adamant about seeking a new home in the AFL’s heartland of Victoria, with potential suitors being the likes of Melbourne, Collingwood, St Kilda, and North Melbourne.

The narrative surrounding Lobb’s request is further fueled by the recent setback faced by Aaron Naughton, the Bulldogs’ star forward, who is set to spend a significant period on the sidelines due to a knee injury. This development paves a potential pathway for Lobb to showcase his talents on the field once more.

Throughout his AFL career, encompassing stints at Fremantle, GWS, and now Western Bulldogs, Lobb has established himself as a proficient forward/ruck, amassing an impressive tally of 168 goals across 163 matches. However, his limited game time, particularly in the current season, has prompted his decision to venture on yet another journey in the AFL realm.

Lobb’s desire for a fresh start, coupled with the Bulldogs’ historic stance on contract obligations, sets the stage for an intriguing trade saga in the upcoming AFL off-season. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on the unfolding developments surrounding Rory Lobb’s quest for a new footballing home.