Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
AFL trade news has placed Joel Amartey and Finn O’Sullivan at the centre of two major contract calls on July 22. The Carlton Blues have reportedly offered Joel Amartey five years, while Finn O’Sullivan is set to reject a Tasmania Devils deal worth up to $15 million and remain with the North Melbourne Kangaroos.
The Carlton Blues view a key forward as their leading need before the 2026 player movement period. Joel Amartey has kicked 28 goals from 15 matches for the Sydney Swans but is sidelined by an Achilles tendon injury.
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Carlton Blues make Joel Amartey offer
“The Blues are hunting a key forward this year. It’s their number-one priority - they’re hitting the market hard for one,” AFL Media reporter Cal Twomey said.
The official AFL free agents list confirms Joel Amartey is an unrestricted free agent. The Sydney Swans have also reportedly offered Joel Amartey five years, while the Carlton Blues are monitoring Greater Western Sydney Giants forward Max Gruzewski.
Cal Twomey believes Joel Amartey and Max Gruzewski are more likely to remain with their current clubs.
Finn O’Sullivan set to stay
Finn O’Sullivan is reportedly close to signing a two-year extension with the North Melbourne Kangaroos through 2029. The deal would take Finn O’Sullivan beyond the Tasmania Devils’ access window for out-of-contract players.
The Tasmania Devils were prepared to offer Finn O’Sullivan an eight-year contract worth up to $15 million. However, Finn O’Sullivan has reportedly shown no interest in meeting with the incoming AFL club.
Collingwood Magpies continue draft strategy
The Collingwood Magpies are expected to continue targeting mature-age state-league players after recent success with Ned Long, Roan Steele and Angus Anderson. Recruiting manager Shane O’Bree and list manager Justin Leppitsch are again watching South Australian National Football League talent.
Geelong Cats captain Patrick Dangerfield also wants to continue into a 20th AFL season after playing 374 games. “I’m pretty keen to play on,” Patrick Dangerfield said, leaving the 400-game milestone within reach in 2027.