Hawthorn secures Zach Merrett and pursues Ben King in AFL trades

Hawthorn has completed a major acquisition by securing midfielder Zach Merrett from Essendon. The deal, finalized on the first day of the AFL trade period, involves Hawthorn sending picks No. 15 and No. 25 in the current national draft, along with a 2028 second-round selection, to the Bombers. Merrett, a seven-time Essendon best and fairest winner, has signed a four-year contract valued at approximately $4 million.

In a separate development, Hawthorn has lodged free agency paperwork for Gold Coast Suns forward Ben King. As a restricted free agent, King’s move to the Hawks is subject to a three-day decision period by the Suns. Gold Coast can choose to match the offer to retain the player or accept a compensation pick, which is expected to be No. 7. The two clubs are also reportedly negotiating regarding young Hawthorn forward Aidan Schubert.