​​​​​​​​Tessa Lee, Sports journalist reporting on global leagues since 2021.​

Chris Fagan has acknowledged that player movement is a reality of modern AFL as speculation continues around the futures of Brisbane stars Lachie Neale and Zac Bailey. Meanwhile, Collingwood has reportedly made enquiries about Hawthorn free agent Mitch Lewis as the Magpies continue exploring options to strengthen their forward line ahead of next season.

Both Bailey and Neale are eligible for free agency and have attracted significant interest from rival clubs.

Fagan Responds to Star Duo Speculation

Bailey has been strongly linked with Adelaide, with reports suggesting the Crows are preparing a long term offer believed to be worth as much as $10 million across seven years.

Dual Brownlow Medallist Lachie Neale has also emerged as a target for several clubs, including Collingwood, with reports indicating the Magpies could offer the veteran midfielder a three year deal valued at approximately $3 million.

Speaking on AFL 360, Fagan said player movement has become part of the modern AFL landscape.

The Brisbane coach stressed that his immediate priority is ensuring both players continue performing at their best while representing the Lions.

Fagan said the situation would eventually resolve itself and indicated he may become more involved in discussions as negotiations progress.

For now, however, he remains focused on supporting both players on and off the field.

Neale Receiving Extra Support

Fagan revealed he has had more conversations with Neale than Bailey as the experienced midfielder works through important personal matters following his separation from wife Jules.

The coach said Neale occasionally seeks advice and support regarding his future, while Bailey's strong on field form has remained the primary focus of their discussions.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding both players, Brisbane continues to receive consistent performances from two of its most influential stars.

Collingwood Makes Enquiry for Mitch Lewis

Collingwood has also been active in the player market as it searches for additional key forward depth.

According to AFL journalist Mitch Cleary, the Magpies have made enquiries about Hawthorn free agent Mitch Lewis.

Lewis reportedly has a four year contract offer from the Hawks believed to be worth between $600,000 and $700,000 per season.

Cleary suggested rival clubs could increase that figure to around $900,000 annually if Lewis decides to test free agency.

Collingwood is understood to view a key forward as a priority target.

Magpies Continue Exploring Options

Lewis joins a growing list of players linked with Collingwood during the current trade period.

The Magpies have also been associated with Port Adelaide star Zak Butters, Brisbane midfielder Lachie Neale and Gold Coast forwards Ben King and Jed Walter.

King has also been linked with Hawthorn should he leave the Suns, while Walter is attracting interest from multiple clubs across the competition.

As the AFL trade and free agency period approaches, Brisbane faces important decisions regarding two of its biggest names, while Collingwood continues assessing several high profile targets in an effort to strengthen its list.