Carlton FC Trade Rumours 2024: Kennedy in Sight, St Kilda’s Double Hunt
As the 2024 AFL Trade Period heats up, Carlton FC has emerged as a major player, with several strategic moves rumored to be in the works. While some clubs are chasing stars and promising youngsters, Carlton has been linked with seasoned players to bolster their midfield and defensive capabilities. The Blues have set their sights on multiple targets, but the potential move for Josh Kennedy from Sydney Swans stands out as the headline news.
Meanwhile, St Kilda is reportedly on the hunt for two players, as the Saints look to strengthen their squad for 2025 after a mixed 2024 campaign. Here’s a deep dive into the latest trade rumors surrounding these clubs, the implications of these potential moves, and how they could shape the AFL landscape for the upcoming season.
Carlton’s Push for Josh Kennedy
Carlton FC has been one of the most talked-about clubs in the 2024 trade period, with their eyes keenly set on bringing in established talent to complement their emerging young stars. The biggest rumor surrounding the Blues is their interest in Sydney Swans’ veteran Josh Kennedy.
Kennedy, a hard-hitting midfielder and a former captain, has been a stalwart for the Swans. Even though his age suggests he is in the twilight of his career, his leadership, contested ball-winning ability, and experience in finals football make him an appealing option for Carlton, especially as they look to add steel to their midfield. Kennedy could be the perfect mentor for younger players like Sam Walsh and Adam Cerra, helping Carlton mount a more sustained finals push in 2025.
Reports indicate that Carlton has been in preliminary talks with Kennedy’s management, hoping to lure him south for one final crack at premiership glory. Kennedy, having spent over a decade at Sydney, may welcome a new challenge, particularly if the Swans are looking to regenerate their list.
If the Blues can secure Kennedy, he would likely take up a mentoring role on the field, easing the workload on Patrick Cripps and bolstering the Blues’ clearance game. Carlton’s midfield depth has been one of its strengths, but Kennedy’s addition would give them another layer of experience and toughness, something coach Michael Voss values highly.
St Kilda’s Double Target
While Carlton’s pursuit of Kennedy is grabbing headlines, St Kilda is quietly making moves of their own, reportedly hunting two key targets to rejuvenate their lineup after an inconsistent 2024 season. The Saints have shown interest in bolstering both their midfield and forward line, with trade rumors suggesting they are eyeing a mix of experienced players and younger prospects.
The Saints’ pursuit of these two players comes on the back of a campaign that saw flashes of brilliance but ultimately fell short of finals aspirations. They have identified key areas where they need reinforcements, particularly in their engine room and forward half, to take the next step under coach Ross Lyon.
While the names of the players they are targeting have not been publicly confirmed, industry insiders suggest that one of the potential signings could be a versatile forward with a knack for goal kicking, addressing the Saints’ inconsistency inside 50. The second player is likely to be a midfielder capable of playing both inside and outside roles, bringing pace and precision to St Kilda’s ball movement.
Carlton’s Other Trade Targets
In addition to Kennedy, Carlton has been linked to a few other players, though none with the same level of intensity. One name that keeps resurfacing is Liam Henry from Fremantle. The Dockers’ young winger is reportedly seeking a fresh start, and Carlton has shown interest in his speed and ability to break lines. With their wing stocks needing a boost, Henry could be an exciting fit in the Blues’ fast-paced game plan.
Another potential target for Carlton is Port Adelaide’s Riley Bonner, a half-back flanker who could provide added depth to the Blues’ defensive unit. Bonner, with his elite kicking and strong intercept marking, could help Carlton shore up its backline, offering Michael Voss more flexibility when it comes to match-day rotations.
Key Outgoings for Carlton?
On the flip side, Carlton may have to part with some talent to make room for their incoming stars. Paddy Dow has been linked with a move away from the Blues after struggling to cement his place in their best 22. Several clubs, including Essendon and Gold Coast, have reportedly shown interest in Dow, who may thrive with more opportunities elsewhere.
Another player potentially on the move is Caleb Marchbank. While Marchbank has been a solid contributor to Carlton’s defense when fit, persistent injury issues have plagued his career. With the Blues looking to bring in fresh talent, Marchbank could be moved on as part of a trade deal or delisted to free up cap space.
The Bigger Picture for Carlton
Michael Voss and the Blues’ list management team are clearly working to build a side capable of contending for a premiership in the near future. With a strong young core in place, including Sam Walsh, Adam Cerra, Harry McKay, and Charlie Curnow, Carlton’s focus seems to be on adding experienced, battle-hardened players like Kennedy to provide leadership and mentorship.
In 2023, Carlton made strides, playing finals and looking competitive, but they ultimately fell short of the ultimate prize. The club knows they are close, and bringing in a player like Kennedy could be the final piece to the puzzle. His experience in high-pressure situations and his ability to win contested possessions will be invaluable in tight finals matches.
As the 2024 AFL Trade Period unfolds, Carlton FC is looking to make calculated moves that could take them from finals contenders to premiership threats. The potential addition of Josh Kennedy is the most intriguing storyline, with the veteran set to add leadership and grit to a Blues midfield brimming with young talent.
St Kilda, meanwhile, is also gearing up for a busy trade period, eyeing two key players who could help them bounce back in 2025. As the rumors continue to swirl, fans will be eagerly awaiting the confirmation of these moves, knowing that the right trades could shape the fortunes of both Carlton and St Kilda in the years to come.
The next few weeks promise to be exciting for both clubs and the AFL community at large, as trade speculation turns into reality and teams position themselves for future success.
