In the first move of the free agency period, Sydney have snapped up Melbourne midfielder James Jordon as an unrestricted free agent.

The Demons will receive an end-of-round-two compensation draft pick (currently pick No.39).

Jordon played all 25 games in the Dees’ 2021 premiership year, but finished the season as medical sub for all three finals, including as an unused sub in their grand final win over the Western Bulldogs.

The 22-year old had been delisted and re-drafted as a rookie at the end of 2020 before establishing himself in the Demons’ best 22, but fell to the fringes in late 2023, overlooked for their last two home-and-away matches and qualifying final loss to Collingwood before earning a recall for the semi final loss to Carlton.

The news comes after the Dees finally quashed trade speculation around star midfielder Clayton Oliver, with CEO Gary Pert releasing an open letter to members confirming the 26-year old will remain at the club.

“At no stage has the club entered discussions with any club regarding a trade for Clayton,” Pert wrote.

“Furthermore, Clayton has not requested a trade and will remain at the Melbourne Football Club.

“The club has been aware of and supporting Clayton with his personal circumstances for some time and is committed to continuing to do so.”

(Photo by Dylan Burns/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

As Melbourne addressed Oliver’s status for the first time, after days of radio silence, Collingwood vice-captain Taylor Adams has been linked with a shock switch to the Swans.

In potentially the biggest move of the trade period, Sydney have reportedly targeted Adams, who missed out on the Magpies’ premiership due to a hamstring injury, to bolster their midfield.

Adams spent more time at half-forward for Collingwood in 2023, with his midfield minutes cut back amid the introduction of ball magnet Tom Mitchell.

The 30-year-old has played 175 games at Collingwood, including 23 this year, but was injured in the Pies’ week off before the preliminary final, then also missed the decider.

(with AAP)