“There’s a really strong possibility that a deal isn’t able to be struck.”
Fremantle are prepared to hold small forward Lachie Schultz to his contract following the Docker’s shock request to land at Collingwood this off-season, however the Western Australian club is open to hearing what the Magpies will offer for his services.
Schultz, who triggered a one-year contract extension just four months ago, lodged a request to return to his home state of Victoria on Monday in what was a surprise outcome on the opening day of the 2023 trade period.
The Williamstown product is seeking a move back to his home state for family reasons, with Fremantle likely asking for a sizeable offer from Collingwood to see a deal agreed to.
Schultz has been the Dockers’ leading goalkicker across the past three seasons, having tallied 85 goals from 76 games over that period.
The 25-year-old is viewed as a “much loved” and “valued” player at Cockburn, with Fremantle football boss Peter Bell telling 6PR that Schultz is contracted and could remain in purple for 2024 unless the right offer is tabled to them by the Magpies.
“We’re aware of some circumstances, as we are with all our players in the background. I guess some circumstances have arisen where Lachie is keen to explore a return home to Victoria,” Bell said.
“Through those discussions we have reminded Lachie – while we understand those circumstances – the fact that he is a contracted player, a much-loved player and a valued player – may mean that there’s every possibility that he plays for us next year and sees out his contract at least.
“We understand how the player movement works these days and that is that players can request a trade to a particular club.
“So, we’ll listen to what Collingwood have to say and then we’ll make a decision based on those conversations around what’s best for Fremantle and within that there’s a really strong possibility that a deal isn’t able to be struck and that Lachie will play for us in 2024.”
Collingwood currently hold picks 18, 37 and 78 for next month’s draft, but will likely add to their hand with the likely loss of midfielder Taylor Adams to Sydney this trade period.
