In the first move of the AFL’s free agency period, Sydney snapped up Melbourne’s James Jordon as an unrestricted free agent.
The Demons will now receive an end-of-round-two draft pick (currently pick No.39) in way of compensation for the 22-year-old midfielder.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Instagram sensation Deven Robertson signs with Lions.
Analysis, local footy and the biggest moments, Seven and 7plus are the home of footy shows for every fan. Stream them all for free on 7plus >>
He is handy pick-up for the Swans and – despite living in the shadows of Melbourne’s high-profile stars – has been regular for the Demons in the past three seasons.
Taken with pick 33 in the 2018 draft, he had a breakout season in 2021 and played 25 games. He followed that up with 22 the following year and managed 18 games this season.
The news comes as scary details emerge of a massive Sydney war chest. Following the retirement of Lance Franklin, and some quiet years on the trade front, it appears the Swans are cashed up and out to play hard when the Trade Period officially opens on Monday.
7NEWS chief AFL reporter Mitch Cleary revealed on Friday that the club was a chance of securing Collingwood vice-captain Taylor Adams.
The Swans are also set to land Melbourne’s out-of-favour ruck Brodie Grundy, who is still on good money after signing a huge seven-year deal with Collingwood in 2020.
The Swans were also plotting a move to poach Western Bulldogs forward Aaron Naughton before the Dogs convinced him to stay with a monster eight-year deal.
While some were critical of the Bulldogs for the length of the contract, it was reported by several outlets that the Swans were trying to tempt Naughton with a staggering $11 million over a 10-year period.
“It was put to me that it was $12 million and I’ve had that denied, but I do believe it was more than $11 million over 10 years that the Swans were prepared to offer (Naughton),” AFL journalist Tom Morris said on SEN.
“It would have been (the biggest contract in AFL history).”
Although Jordon is a modest start for what is expected to arrive at the Swans, the club’s football manager Charlie Gardiner said the club was excited.
“James is a talented young midfielder who we think has a bright future ahead of him,” Gardiner said.
“We think he will be a valuable addition to our midfield group with his running ability and flexibility to play inside and out.
“He has had an impressive start to his career to date and comes with experience in a successful program at Melbourne, so we are confident he will make us better.”
The 2023 Trade Period opens on Monday and runs until Wednesday October 18.
If you’d like to view this content, please adjust your .
To find out more about how we use cookies, please see our Cookie Guide.