Carlton midfielder Paddy Dow has emerged as the latest player seeking a move this trade period, with the young Blues onballer reportedly lodging a request to become a St Kilda player.
Dow’s future at Princes Park has been of much curiosity given his expiring contract and form at VFL level, which wasn’t enough to cement a place in Michael Voss‘ best 22-man side this season.
The 23-year-old is the last Carlton player unsigned for 2024 after the Blues announced new deals for a trio of players earlier this week and cut a further three from its list in the wake of the club’s finals exit.
Dow had gained reported interest from both Sydney and St Kilda in the build-up to Monday’s trade period opening, with the latter now said to have won the race for the former top three draft pick.
According to AFL.com.au’s Riley Beveridge, Dow has requested a trade to St Kilda, looking to ending his time in the navy blue after six years with the club.
Sydney’s dimmed interest in Dow comes as the New South Wales side prepares to sign Taylor Adams from Collingwood this off-season after already adding Melbourne midfielder James Jordon through free agency.
Dow has played 73 games during his time with Carlton, 10 of which came in the back half of this season as the Blues battled with multiple setbacks to their midfield.
He would be among the VFL’s best performers prior to his mid-season recall under Voss, averaging 31.4 disposals, 8.0 clearances and 4.5 tackles each outing at the state league level.
A move to Moorabbin will likely give Dow a greater chance of playing out a full season at senior level as Saints coach Ross Lyon looks to bolster his midfield group.
The Saints and Blues will now look to broker a deal over the coming 10 days before the trade period’s deadline on Wednesday, October 18.
With Dow unsigned, the Saints could sign the midfielder via the Pre-Season Draft, however in a likely show of good faith, will look to negotiate a trade with Carlton.
The 2023 trade period will open at 9:00am (AEDT) on Monday, October 9.