AFL Trade 2025 also started its sixth day with negotiations all intensifying over three key names, namely Zach Merrett, Charlie Curnow, and Christian Petracca. Further possible deals that could reshape team dynamics were still being pursued by clubs before the 2026 season. Most discussions progressed on the day, while others stalled as teams evaluated long-term strategies and player valuation.
Club officials and managers during the AFL Trade 2025 negotiations on Day 6.
One of these is the currently running trade window, which has been one of the most active in recent decades as clubs juggle the salary limits and list management. Whereas some deals seem to be on the verge of being closed, others seem to be in suspense, and fans and analysts are more than keen to keep a watch on every move.
The Future of Merrett is still in the Talks
Essendon captain Zach Merrett was still in high demand as Day 6 progressed. Several clubs are thought to have enquired, but Essendon has been adamant about keeping their star midfielder with them. Negotiations on contract length and potential trade value have focused, yet no offer has been registered so far.
Essendon captain Zach Merrett remains a major focus as rival clubs make enquiries.
Merrett has been a consistent and great leader, which has helped him become one of the most sought-after midfielders for AFL Trade 2025. The sources, which are nearest to the negotiations, said that other rival clubs are ready to pay a lot in drafting, but Essendon seems not to be eager to lose their on-field leader. This is a dynamic situation; negotiations are ongoing, and talks will likely continue as the trade opens its final days.
Future of Curnow in the Future of Carlton Talks
Curnow forward Charlie Curnow was another central point of discussion at AFL Trade 2025. Although there is some speculation about their possible actions, Carlton has confirmed that they want to retain the Coleman Medallist. Curnow is worth a lot to the club both on and off the field, and this has made it a sensitive topic to negotiate on.
Carlton forward Charlie Curnow continues to draw strong interest despite no formal trade request
Although reports had linked Curnow to at least two clubs interested in acquiring the services of an established key forward, insiders confirmed that no official trade request had been made. It is claimed that the management of the Blues is sure that Curnow will not leave Ikon Park after 2025. The following days will either decide whether the rival interest will result in some formal talks or whether the speculation pays off.
Arguments at Petracca Resume at Melbourne
The name of Christian Petracca was mentioned once again at AFL Trade 2025 on Day 6. The contract status of the Melbourne midfielder has attracted some publicity in the face of a possible transfer. Club officials have always insisted that Petracca is part of their long-term plans, even though interstate clubs have been showing interest.
Melbourne star Christian Petracca remains central to trade discussions amid ongoing rumours.
The bargaining has been based on flexibility in the salary cap in Melbourne, and how it might be drafted in the future. Although it may seem that no trade deal is imminent, the case of Petracca still creates a lot of attention. Being versatile and influential, he is a good asset, and Melbourne is not likely to lose him unless a big offer arises.
Other Trade Developments Cross Club
Outside the big names, there were a number of other smaller trades and draft deals being made throughout the day. There were also those clubs that were reportedly active, like Hawthorn, Fremantle, and the Western Bulldogs, where depth players and future drafts are looked at.
It was argued by analysts that most clubs are waiting for the results of the big deals before they can conclude their own lists. The ripple effect of one marquee trade may affect the rest of the trade window, and some of the fringe players may be affected.
Negotiations are To Get Stiffer
With the last phases of AFL Trade 2025 underway, tensions remain in clubs and between managers and players to strike a deal. Some of the deals are said to be at mature stages, and others can rely on the late negotiations. The following days are likely to produce additional relocation as the teams are getting ready for the next draft.
The trade window has shown the extent to which the process is calculated and strategic. Clubs are striking the right balance between short-term demands and long-term sustainability, and therefore, each action they take must be in line with the performance objectives. The player representatives have also been on their toes, and they are trying to achieve the optimum results for their clients in a competitive market.
The Major Storylines to follow before the Deadline
As the Deadline nears, the focus is still on whether Merrett, Curnow or Petracca will make a step before it is too late. Other clubs can also make last-minute bids to acquire experienced players or better draft status.
The analysts project that decisions at the last minute would determine the competitive balance of the 2026 season. The following 48 hours will prove to be a decisive one, and one that will sort out whether the period of trade will carry with it some ground-breaking changes or will be pretty stable, as per the majority of the clubs.
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Final Thoughts
Day 6 of the AFL Trade 2025 demonstrated the difficulty and competitiveness of the movement of players today. Although negotiations involving Zach Merrett, Charlie Curnow, and Christian Petracca had front-staged proceedings, there were a number of back-stage deals that were on the rise. The expectation is that the clubs will still be active towards the end of the trade deadline, where each negotiation can have a possible implication on the next season’s lineup.
The league is more than ever as the clock slowly runs out on how these negotiations will end, defining the future AFL competition in 2026.
FAQs
- What is AFL Trade 2025?
AFL Trade 2025 is the annual player movement period where clubs negotiate transfers, trades, and draft picks to strengthen their lists for the next season. - Which players were in focus on Day 6 of AFL Trade 2025?
Day 6 centred on Essendon’s Zach Merrett, Carlton’s Charlie Curnow, and Melbourne’s Christian Petracca, who all attracted strong interest from rival clubs. - Did Essendon agree to trade Zach Merrett?
As of Day 6, Essendon had not agreed to trade Zach Merrett. The club remains firm on keeping their captain unless presented with a substantial offer. - Is Charlie Curnow leaving Carlton?
Carlton has indicated that Charlie Curnow is not expected to leave. No official trade request was lodged, despite continued interest from other teams. - What is the latest on Christian Petracca’s trade talks?
Christian Petracca remains contracted to Melbourne, and the club has expressed its intention to retain him despite outside speculation. - When does the AFL Trade 2025 period end?
The AFL Trade 2025 period is scheduled to close in mid-October, giving clubs limited time to finalise negotiations and list changes. - Which other clubs were active during Day 6?
Hawthorn, Fremantle, and the Western Bulldogs were among the clubs involved in discussions about draft picks and secondary player movements. - What happens after the AFL Trade 2025 period ends?
After the trade period concludes, clubs will prepare for the AFL Draft and finalise their player lists ahead of pre-season training.
