Silvagni recommits to the Blues Cats tall Kreuger to ask for trade

Geelong tall Nathan Kreuger has told the Cats he wants to explore other opportunities during this year’s trade period with Collingwood expected to be his preferred destination.

Recruited from South Australia as a pre-selected state league player after Geelong traded pick 42 to Carlton at the end of 2018, he made his debut for the Cats in round 20 this season, playing as a key defender against North Melbourne and the Giants.

He had interest from the Magpies at the end of last season but decided to remain with Geelong in an attempt to force his way into their star-studded line up but was unable to do so as they progressed through to their third consecutive preliminary final.

Nathan Kreuger could be an attacking option for Geelong.Credit:Getty Images

The Saints were also waiting in the wings to see whether he decided to remain at Geelong who made an offer to him last week however their main focus for 2022 remains on the national draft after two busy trade periods.

Industry sources said Collingwood views the 196cm tall as a potential forward option as they look to increase their marking options inside 50.

Geelong re-signed Quinton Narkle for one more year on Monday and are waiting to see whether the contracted Jordan Clark decides to request a trade with Fox Footy reporting the 20-year-old West Australian met with Fremantle.

Meanwhile Carlton fan favourite Jack Silvagni has declared he wants to develop his game under a new coach, having capped a strong year by signing a two-year contract extension.

The Blues may still be searching for a new coach but they have quietly re-signed several players, the latest being Silvagni, who will remain at Princes Park at least until the end of 2023.

Blueblood: Jack Silvagni has recommitted to Carlton.Credit:AFL Photos

Industry sources said Silvagni, 23, and the Blues had been debating terms in recent weeks but a deal was finally done, the club confirming the contract a day before Silvagni’s father, Steve, is due to speak at the launch of Trade Radio.

Silvagni averaged almost 14 disposals in 15 matches and kicked nine goals. His versatility was underlined when he was successfully used as a back-up ruckman because of the club’s injury issues.

“I’m incredibly excited to recommit and sign on for a further two seasons,” Silvagni said.

“This football club has been a very significant part of my life from the moment I was born and to be able to continue doing what I love in the navy blue guernsey is something I feel very privileged to have the opportunity to do.

“I really enjoyed being able to work on different areas of my game this year and throw my hat in the ring to play in various positions, so I’m looking forward to seeing where I can take my game over the next two seasons.”

After an emotional week in which his legendary grandfather and Carlton great Sergio Silvagni passed away, Jack played a pivotal role in a comeback victory over the Magpies in round 18, grabbing seven marks and a kicking a goal, the latter prompting him to point to the sky in honour of his grandfather.

Carlton head of list management Nick Austin said the club was delighted with the contract announcement.

“Jack’s passion for this football club is undeniable and the pride he takes in wearing the navy blue is second to none,” Austin said.

“That is evidenced by the way he takes to the field each week â€" he plays with heart and he puts his body on the line, finishing every game with nothing left to give.

“Despite battling a few injuries, his development across all areas of his game has been pleasing and his willingness to tackle new challenges is something we commend and admire, so we are excited to see what Jack will achieve over the next two years as he takes the next step in his career.”

The Blues have announced new deals with defenders Nic Newman and Brodie Kemp, ruckman Marc Pittonet and veteran Ed Curnow over the past week, joining Harry McKay and Patrick Cripps who re-signed through the season. But the next big-ticket item is Sam Walsh, who is contracted until the end of 2022. Walsh finished fourth in the Brownlow medal count last weekend, one of four men to poll at least 30 votes, and will command a mega deal which could make him the club’s highest paid player.

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Jon Pierik is a sports journalist at The Age. He covers AFL and has won awards for his cricket and basketball writing.Connect via Twitter or email.Peter Ryan is a sports reporter with The Age covering AFL, horse racing and other sports.Connect via Twitter or email.

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