According to reports, Collingwood is showing a lot of interest in tall Jack Hayes from St Kilda in order to increase their options for forwards and rucks during the AFL trade period.
Hayes, 27, recently finished a medical with the Magpies, indicating their strong interest in the South Australian player, according to 7NEWS chief AFL reporter Mitch Cleary. With Hayes out of contract and uncertain about his future at St. Kilda, Collingwood sees a chance to add a player with proven skills to their roster.
Cleary highlighted that Hayes is on Collingwood’s radar for a key forward and ruck position, a role that head coach Craig McRae has prioritized. The 28-year-old Hayes could have an immediate impact on the team, as he highlighted in his statement, “He is one name to keep an eye on over the next nine days.”
Hayes began his AFL career as a mature-aged recruit from SANFL powerhouse Woodville-West Torrens, where he was recognized for his versatility and consistency, even captaining the South Australian state team in 2021. Despite facing injury setbacks, he made a memorable debut in Round 1 of 2022 with a standout three-goal performance against Collingwood, showing potential as a reliable forward target.
Signing Hayes could enhance Collingwood’s forward strength alongside Brody Mihocek and Dan McStay as they prepare to contend for another premiership. The Magpies have already secured GWS’ Harry Perryman as a free agent and are also interested in Port Adelaide’s Dan Houston to bolster their defensive lineup.
This pursuit of Hayes aligns with Collingwood’s proactive strategy in the trade period, as they aim to maintain their championship contention following their 2023 success. While they do not possess a first-round pick for the upcoming National Draft, they plan to remain active in the trade landscape in the coming weeks.