North Melbourne youngster Jason Horne-Francis drops trade bombshell

North Melbourne have been rocked on the eve of the AFL Trade Period with a young superstar officially requesting out of the club.

I want to go home. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

Things just went from bad to downright horrific for North Melbourne.

On the eve of the AFL Trade Period, the club’s 2021 number one draft pick officially requested a trade away from the club.

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Jason Horne-Francis had been at the centre of swirling rumours over his playing future after putting contract talks on hold midway through his first year.

As the speculation grew, Horne-Francis’ future in Melbourne only became more clouded and on Sunday night the club confirmed he had officially requested a trade home to South Australia.

North Melbourne list manager Brady Rawlings in a statement confirmed the club would put their interests first when looking at potential trades.

“Jason is contracted for next year, we’ve invested significantly in him as our first-ever No.1 pick just 12 months ago and we view him as a key part of the club’s plans going forward,” Roos list manager Brady Rawlings said.

“We appreciate Jason’s circumstances but at the same time we’re determined to look after the best interests of North Melbourne.”

I want to go home. (Photo by Daniel Pockett/Getty Images)

Horne-Francis’ debut season was filled with rocky moments, no moment bigger than when he was dropped ahead of what would have been his first game back in South Australia.

“The star teenager was called out by interim coach Leigh Adams and senior players on Sunday for failing to complete his proper ice baths and recovery in front of their very eyes,” Channel 7 journalist Mitch Cleary reported.

“He spent this morning with a dozen teammates training in Melbourne (instead of travelling with the squad).”

Adelaide appeared to be the frontrunner throughout the season to lure the supremely talented midfielder away from North, but on Sunday it emerged Port Adelaide were chasing hard.

The Power currently hold pick eight in this year’s draft, but would need to up the offer substantially if they hope to nab Horne-Francis.

The announcement left footy fans in utter disbelief.

North could potentially get port’s first and future first.

Or dig in on principle and risk only receiving a first round next year.

Difficult decision, exacerbated by no guarantee regarding Clarkson coaching

— Tom Browne (@TomBrowne7) October 2, 2022

Pick 8 and a future first doesn't get it done for JHF surely?

Have to be more involved for North to play ball.

— Tim Michell (@tim_michell) October 2, 2022

“Not like this! Not like this!” https://t.co/MyguDeWvNLpic.twitter.com/08jpAtruPN

— Rudi Edsall (@RudiEdsall) October 2, 2022