SSP signing news: West Coast meets with delisted Melbourne defender Adam Tomlinson
A late suitor has emerged for Adam Tomlinson, who could continue his AFL career at a third club this year. Get the latest train-on and SSP news here.
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West Coast is strongly considering offering a last-minute opportunity to former Melbourne and GWS swingman Adam Tomlinson.
The Herald Sun can reveal the Eagles met with Tomlinson in Melbourne last week to discuss whether he could head west for a train-on chance and potential list spot on the eve of the season.
Tomlinson, 31, looms as a ready-made addition who could help replace departed big man Tom Barrass early in the season and provide key position coverage at both ends.
Gun defender Jeremy McGovern, 32, and jet forward Oscar Allen have also endured persistent injury troubles in recent years.
The 31-year-old Tomlinson, who played well in North Melbourne’s scratch match last week, has maintained his excellent fitness levels after eight games with the Demons last year and 185 AFL matches in total.
He dominated at VFL level averaging 24 possessions across nine games in the state league competition and 15 touches a game at the top level.
But Tomlinson also has a young family to consider if the formal comes his way, and linked up to play with North Melbourne in the VFL this year.
Eagles’ list manager Matthew Clarke met with Tomlinson, who is open to another season at the top level if it also suits his young family.
Tomlinson also has a strong relationship with new Eagles’ coach Andrew McQualter who was an assistant at Melbourne last year.
Discussions with Tomlinson’s manager, former Richmond and GWS star Brett Deledio, from Macs Sports, are ongoing.
The Eagles are still weighing up their options including the interest in Tomlinson, the 194cm swingman who played 140 games at GWS and 45 at Melbourne.
West Coast is on the clock to make a call ahead of the club’s first pre-season scratch match against Richmond on Monday, February 17.
Former St Kilda defender James Van Es and ex Gold Coast backman Sandy Brock are also training with the club and are under consideration.
The club plays Gold Coast in Perth in Round 1.
Originally published as SSP signing news: West Coast meets with delisted Melbourne defender Adam Tomlinson
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