Rory Lobb’s $1.85m headache as trade request rejected amid Fremantle exodus

Fremantle has put its foot down regarding contracted tall Rory Lobb, while three teammates are set to play elsewhere in 2023.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 10: Rory Lobb of the Dockers in action during the 2022 AFL First Semi Final match between the Collingwood Magpies and the Fremantle Dockers at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on September 10, 2022 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

Three Fremantle players have requested trades and another has been urged to seek opportunity elsewhere, the club has revealed.

A Fremantle update on Thursday evening said Griffin Logue, Blake Acres and Rory Lobb had all requested trades, while Darcy Tucker and Lloyd Meek are open to a move.

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It comes after a West Australian report Lobb bought a $1.85m house in South Yarra just days ago, highlighting his ambition to leave the club.

Lobb has his heart set on a move to the Western Bulldogs.

Lobb remains contracted for another season, will find it difficult to move clubs given the comments made in Fremantle’s trade update by football boss Peter Bell.

“Rory indicated he was seeking a trade,” Bell confirmed.

“We had a conversation with Rory where we informed him that due to his contracted status and also the importance he has for our structure that we wouldn’t be able to facilitate a trade for Rory.”

Lobbin action. Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images

The Herald Sun reported on Thursday that Logue, 24, asked to be traded to North Melbourne despite strong interest from Richmond, which is already looking to bring in Greater Western Sydney duo Tim Taranto and Jacob Hopper.

Acres was one of several Fremantle players offered below market-value deals to stay at the club, as the Dockers cleared cap space for potential recruit Luke Jackson.

Carlton is believed to have offered the wingman a three-year deal valued at around $350,000 per season.

“Griffin and Blake, were both important players for the club in 2022 and it’s no surprise they have generated interest from other clubs,” Bell said.

“They are both out of contract and whilst we are disappointed they are seeking to continue their careers elsewhere, we will work to ensure the club is fairly compensated.

“In our discussion Griff stated that ‘it was the hardest decision he had ever had to make’ and that he loves the club and his teammates.

“He also communicated that he was very keen to ensure a positive result for all parties through the trade process.”

Tucker remains contracted for 2023, but the club and his management are open to a move.

Originally published as Rory Lobb’s $1.85m headache as trade request rejected amid Fremantle exodus