Tim Kelly officially requests a trade from Geelong to West Coast
UPDATE: GEELONG will talk with Western Australian clubs about Tim Kelly but have hinted they won’t trade away their star midfielder unless the deal is right.
Geelong
Don't miss out on the headlines from Geelong. Followed categories will be added to My News.
GEELONG won’t trade Tim Kelly easily with the club saying it’s up to both Western Australian clubs to come to the party if either wants the midfielder.
Earlier today it was revealed Kelly would seek a trade back to WA, the homesick star wanting to return home after just one season in Geelong.
A few hours later the Cats issued a statement, revealing they’ll be prepared to hold Kelly to his contract if a suitable deal can’t be reached.
AFL TRADE AND FREE AGENCY: FOLLOW ALL THE NEWS LIVE
Tim Kelly opens up on his journey from part-time footballer in WA to a key to Geelong’s finals hopes
“Tim Kelly has asked that the club explore the possibility of trading him to his home state, Western Australia,” Geelong said in a statement.
“As is well known, Tim is under contract to the Cats for the 2019 season, and it is highly likely he will remain with the club.
“However out of respect for Tim, we will listen to what Fremantle and West Coast are prepared to offer and determine whether or not we believe it is a viable trade for our club.”
The Cats were keen to get through last night’s best and fairest without the contract saga as a distraction, with the electric midfielder finishing in the top three after a brilliant season.
But while his manager had said as recently as yesterday that he had made no decision the Cats must now try to broker a deal to satisfy both parties, with Kelly believed to be hopeful of joining reigning premier West Coast.
If they cannot find a satisfying resolution he might be forced to stay after being selected by Cats recruiter Steven Wells at pick 24 in last year’s national draft.
Today Kelly’s manager, Anthony van der Wielen, said a WA return was always a possibility for the smooth-moving midfielder.
“Geelong knew this was a possibility when they drafted him,” van der Wielen told SEN.
“The Cats have been fantastic trying to accommodate Tim and the family. If Tim could bring the Geelong footy club to Perth, he would.”
The Herald Sun first reported his homesickness and potential to return home as he and his partner arrived in Geelong with three children under three.
The Eagles will have several high picks with Andrew Gaff and Scott Lycett almost certainly leaving, handing West Coast selections in the early 20s.
It will be a shattering blow for Geelong given he was a star of their midfield this year, breaking lines and kicking goals in a team that was supposed to aim for a premiership.
Originally published as Tim Kelly officially requests a trade from Geelong to West Coast
Ablett family reveal details of son’s condition
Jordan and Gary Ablett had been reluctant to discuss many details about their little boy’s heartbreaking condition until now.
Four Cats sign on as flag trio remain without deals
Four Cats have signed short-term contracts with the club, including a free agent. It means three ageing stars are the only uncontracted Geelong players at the club.