AFL star’s official trade request solves $3m mystery

The Fremantle Dockers have released a statement that ends months of intrigue surrounding young star Adam Cerra and his future.

Adam Cerra is coming home.

Fremantle’s Adam Cerra has officially requested to be traded away from Fremantle, the Dockers have confirmed.

The 21-year-old has been the subject of intrigue all year after he reportedly knocked back a monster, four-year contract extension offer from Fremantle.

Veteran footy journalist Kim Hagdorn had reported in April the Blues were preparing a contract offer of around $2.8 million over four years, while Fremantle was also reported to have tabled a slightly richer offer around $3 million over four years.

Fremantle football manager Peter Bell said in the club statement there was “disappointment” in seeing Cerra leave the club.
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Cerra had been taken with the No. 5 overall draft pick at the 2017 AFL National Draft.

The Dockers’ statement confirmed Cerra’s request is to be traded back home to Victoria.

According to reports, Carlton is Cerra’s clear preference, despite the trade request not nominating a preferred club for him to be traded to.

Essendon as also linked with Cerra, but Fox Footy’s Tom Morris reported earlier this month the Bombers had withdrawn their interest.

The Dockers are expected to command a high price for Cerra with reports Carlton would have to cough up a trade package that would include the No. 6 draft pick they will have at the 2021 Draft.

It comes at a time when Carlton has become a laughing stock surrounding the future of coach David Teague.

The Blues mentor has reportedly learned the verdict of the club’s independent mid-season review and is expected to be sacked this week. The club’s reported preference is to entice Hawthorn legend Alastair Clarkson to take the position of head coach.

Adam Cerra of the Dockers kicks a goal during the round 22 AFL match between the Fremantle Dockers and West Coast Eagles.

Despite the instability, Cerra is expected to end up at Carlton once the Dockers and Blues sit down to negotiate his departure during the 2021 AFL Trade Period, beginning in October.

“Since his arrival in 2017, Adam Cerra has been everything we hoped we would get from a number five selection in the draft, which only highlights our disappointment in his decision,” Bell said.

“Our disappointment comes with the understanding that Adam is making this request purely based on his desire to be closer to his family and friends, something that has been especially difficult for our interstate players in the past two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Since 2017, we have invested a lot into Adam both on and off the field, and we are proud of the person he is and the footballer he is.

“It’s easy to forget that he is only 21, with many years ahead until he reaches the peak of his abilities.”

Originally published as AFL star’s official trade request solves $3m mystery