Zach Merrett remains with the Bombers as bombshell trade crumbles

Essendon captain Zach Merrett was adamant he wanted to find a new home but in the dying stages of the trade period no deal was made.

The AFL’s 2025 Trade Period has come and gone.

Some big name players were sent on their way in a frenetic final few hours on Wednesday, but the biggest story of all was the failed Zach Merrett trade.

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Merrett was adamant on departing Tullamarine and joining Victorian rivals Hawthorn after twice meeting with Hawks coach Sam Mitchell.

Player manager Tom Petroro was seen marching all over Marvel Stadium as he bounced back and forth between both clubs in the hopes of brokering a deal.

The Bombers however dug in their heels and refused to budge on any offer thrown their way with the club now set to hold him to his contract.

Recap the entire final day of the Trade Period below.