AFL Trade: Fremantle footy boss Peter Bell confirms shift in stance on Rory Lobb as GWS exit looms
Speaking on ABC’s Grandstand on Saturday, Bell’s stance on the contracted Lobb had shifted but said there were still “significant barriers” before any deal with the Giants could be done.
“You never say never – particularly the way the trade period’s being conducted these days,” Bell said.
“We’re just waiting.
“Our position now is we’ll just wait and see if a trade request is made. And if a trade request is made, then we’ll work through that.”
Lobb would reportedly take a $200,000 a year pay cut to return to GWS, where he played 74 games across five seasons before arriving at the Dockers.
Rory Lobb reportedly wants to play as a forward, rather than ruck.
Rory Lobb reportedly wants to play as a forward, rather than ruck. Credit: Will Russell/AFL Photos
But what exactly the deal would be for Lobb remains up in the air, with Bell clarifying the Dockers have not spoken to either rumoured trade targets Bobby Hill, who is under the same player management as Lobb, or Stephen Coniglio.
“Bobby’s not someone we’ve spoken to,” Bell confirmed.
“Steve’s the captain of GWS. We haven’t spoken about Steve at all.
“I can only read and hear what Steve’s manager Tom Petroro has said and that is that absolutely he is committed there to GWS. He’s got a long-term contract, and he’s the captain of that club.”
“He’s not someone we’ve spoken to at all.”
With the two WA players off the table, GWS hold picks two and 13 – but nothing until pick 53 after that, further complicating any deal for Lobb.
The trade period deadline ends at 4.30pm Wednesday (WST).
