The Brisbane Lions have become a real contender to land the signature of the AFL’s biggest name.
The future of Lance ‘Buddy’ Franklin has been one of the biggest talking points in Australian sport since news broke that the Swans star may not remain in Sydney beyond this season.
Wide World of Sports understands Franklin has informed the Swans he will be leaving at the end of 2022, and it is believed he and his wife Jesinta are motivated by the move north to be close to family on the Gold Coast.
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Swans’ Lance Franklin celebrates kicking a goal at the SCG. (Getty)
Franklin’s desire to play at 35 is strong and fueled by the motivation to win more firsts.
That’s why the Lions have become Buddy’s primary destination.
It is understood there have been talks between Brisbane and Franklin’s management about a possible move to the Gabba.
Lance Franklin. (Getty)
As an unrestricted free agent, Franklin can join any club in the competition without Sydney having the option to match an offer.
Franklin’s potential arrival would add even more star power to the Lions’ forward line, joining Joe Daniher, Eric Hipwood and Charlie Cameron.
Dan McStay is expected to leave the Lions at the end of the year, with Collingwood the likely destination and Brisbane unlikely to match the offer submitted to the restricted free agent.
A McStay exit would open a big hole for Buddy to step into the Lions.
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