Saint Wilkie to Reject Bulldogs, Petracca Trade elaborate by Adelaide’s Stance
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AFL trade whispers are swirling as St kilda’s Cal Wilkie appears set to decline a substantial offer from the Western Bulldogs, while a potential move for Melbourne star Christian Petracca to Adelaide faces a notable hurdle. The latest developments signal a dynamic off-season for player movement across the league.
St Kilda is actively seeking to strengthen their defensive line. Despite the saints’ recent investment in players like Tom de Koning and Jack Silvagni, making Wilkie appear perhaps available, he is expected to commit his future to the club.
“Cal Wilkie will stay after the club significantly upped his contract,” reported Tom Morris of 9 News.Sources indicate that Wilkie engaged in both phone and face-to-face conversations with Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge and other key staff before Saints president Andrew Bassat intervened to finalize the deal.While currently under contract with St Kilda thru 2025, Wilkie is viewed as a future captaincy prospect. However, speculation regarding his commitment had been building, with one observer noting on Tuesday morning that “at the moment, he hasn’t told the Dogs no… so the door’s ajar.”
Petracca’s Future: Adelaide Stands Firm on Rachele
Simultaneously occurring, Melbourne is preparing for the possibility of losing star midfielder Christian Petracca, who has expressed a desire for a “fresh start” in 2026. However, any potential trade to the Adelaide Crows is currently stalled due to the Crows’ unwillingness to part with young forward Josh Rachele.
According to Seven’s Theo Doropoulos, “Adelaide forward Josh Rachele will absolutely not be part of any deal involving Demons superstar Christian Petracca and a potential move to the Crows.” Rachele, contracted until 2029, is considered “untouchable” by the Adelaide Football Club. The 22-year-old has shown promise, averaging over two goals per game in 14 appearances in 2025 before an injury curtailed his season.
Despite suggestions from experts, including Fox Footy’s Jordan Lewis, that Rachele coudl be the key to unlocking a deal, the Crows remain resolute.Luke pedlar has been mentioned as a potential inclusion in a trade, given his desire for increased midfield time.
Melbourne CEO Paul Guerra confirmed the club’s awareness of Petracca’s intentions. “We met with Christian late last week where he expressed his desire to explore a fresh start in 2026,” Guerra stated. “Christian is contracted for a further four years and is a once in a generation player. with this in mind, any decision regarding Christian’s future will be made in the best interest of the Melbourne Football Club.” Petracca’s accolades include four All-Australian selections, two best and fairest awards, a Norm Smith Medal, and a premiership.
Bulldogs Target Robertson and Budarick
The Western Bulldogs are also actively pursuing midfield reinforcements, setting their sights on Brisbane midfielder Deven Robertson. AFL Media’s Riley Beveridge reports that the 24-year-old is likely to seek a new AFL home after falling out of favor with the Lions. Robertson, who played a key role in Brisbane’s 2022 and 2023 finals campaigns, has seen limited game time in the past two seasons. He impressed in the VFL in 2025, averaging 26.1 disposals and 6.6 tackles per game.
Brisbane Lions continue premiership tour | 01:24
The Bulldogs, who also have renewed interest in West Coast’s Starcevich, are also pursuing Gold Coast defender Connor Budarick, with the Kangaroos also in the mix. Budarick has reportedly ruled out moves to Brisbane and Essendon and currently holds a two-year contract offer from the Suns.
These developments highlight a busy period of player movement as clubs prepare for the 2026 AFL season. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the futures of several key players and shaping the landscape of the league.
