Paul Roos says Melbourne could trade for Adelaide Crows star Patrick Dangerfield

PAUL Roos says the Demons haven’t offered Patrick Dangerfield a contract but believes trading of free agents early is imminent.

Crows v Eagles at Adelaide Oval

PAUL Roos says the Demons haven’t offered Patrick Dangerfield a contract but the Melbourne coach believes the trading of free agents a season early is imminent.

Roos said he had not met with Dangerfield despite speculation of a Demons overture, with Melbourne likely to have picks two and three to offer in return for an experienced star.

He said all options were on the table for all of Melbourne’s picks, but while Dangerfield has massive appeal Roos says he is a contracted player.

That could change if Adelaide follows through on board member Mark Ricciuto’s comments that Dangerfield could be traded this year before he comes out of contract next year.

Patrick Dangerfield gets a handpass away as Jack Ziebell looks on. Picture: Colleen Petch.

A club like Melbourne could potentially offer two top-five picks for Dangerfield this year instead of him walking for a mid-teens pick if Adelaide played finals next year.

Roos said Dangerfield was contracted, but says clubs will soon accept maximum compensation by trading free agents a season early.

“I haven’t (spoken to Dangerfield) but I think it’s been fuelled by Ricciuto’s comments on radio. Of course it pricks everyone’s interest.

“We would absolutely be interested in him but he’s a contracted player. It gives you an insight into the future.

“You are going to see as early as this year or next year with someone like Dangerfield, clubs trading them a year before free agency.

“There is no question it is going to happen. When exactly will it happen? I don’t think anyone can be certain but you can sense clubs (with players about to become free agents) are a little bit on edge.”

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The Herald Sun approached Dangerfield at the AFL’s live site on Wednesday to clarify his position but he refused to comment.

The Crows are clearly petrified about losing the trio of Dangerfield, Rory Sloane and Taylor Walker, all out of contract at the end of next year.

Roos is brokering a deal for Mitch Clark, who wants to head to Collingwood despite interest from rivals.

The Herald Sun reported James Hird’s interest in Clark joining Essendon last week, with the Dons still extremely keen.

Roos says all options are available for the club’s picks and players.

“We are clearly talking to all clubs about pick two. Our fans can’t wait for another three or four years, we have to get cracking to become more competitive.”