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Trade talk: Western Bulldogs lead charge for two interstate talents
SEN • September 29th, 2025 10:20 pm
The Western Bulldogs are planning out an array of moves following their ninth-placed finish, leading the race for two interstate talents ahead of the 2025 Trade Periods.
Having missed out on playing finals this season, the Dogs remain without a finals win since their 2021 Grand Final charge, falling short this year off the back of a lacklustre defence.
With reinforcements in mind, Gold Coast defender Connor Budarick is said to be on the Dogs' radar, with two Victorian clubs leading the race for the Sun's services.
Now out of contract, Budarick featured in 19 games for the Suns this season including both of the club's first two finals in history, averaging 12 disposals and three tackles.
However, the former academy product remains keen on a move, with the Bulldogs alongside North Melbourne leading the charge.
According to Riley Beveridge, the Bulldogs hold firm as the frontrunners for the 24-year-old's talents, however both sides are well in with a chance of securing a deal in the coming weeks.
Beyond Budarick, Brisbane Lions' midfielder Deven Robertson has remained keen on a move away from the club following yet another season on the outskirts of the premiership side.
Playing just six games across his last two seasons at the club, Robertson is said to be exploring his options over the trade period, and while the West Coast Eagles have remained the favourites to land the 24-year-old, Beveridge has reported that the Western Bulldogs have emerged as a potential suitor.
Robertson is out of contract with the back-to-back premiers, and holds interest in joining Budarick as a potential Bulldog in 2026.
Follow AFL Trade Radio live throughout the trade period and we will bring you all the breaking news!
