Port Adelaide is entering the final hours of the 2024 AFL trade period with significant moves on the horizon, particularly regarding Dan Houston. The club’s football manager, Chris Davies, has made it clear that any potential deal for Houston will require the right compensation, emphasizing that the defender won’t be leaving for anything less than his true value.
In an interview on AFL Trade Radio, Davies discussed the club’s strategy and the implications of recent player preferences. With Houston expressing interest in a move to Victoria, the club’s efforts to recruit a replacement have not yet materialized as hoped. “We aimed to work with Dan in good faith, considering if we could bring in someone to fill his shoes, we might be more open to a trade,” Davies explained. He reiterated that the club must prioritize its long-term interests moving forward.
Davies maintained that Houston will not be traded easily, indicating that Port Adelaide is prepared to hold onto the 27-year-old until the very end of the trade period if necessary. “Dan will not be departing for less than what we deem appropriate,” he stated, reinforcing that while clubs may display their negotiating power at the start of the trade period, Port Adelaide has specific expectations to meet.
Turning to the potential acquisition of Gold Coast forward Jack Lukosius, Davies shared insights about the negotiations. While Lukosius has verbally agreed to join Port, the Suns are expected to request a first-round pick, which poses a challenge since Port Adelaide currently lacks this asset. Having traded their future first-round pick last year, they will need AFL approval to trade another. Davies expressed confidence that this permission would be granted, allowing Port to move forward with the transaction.
Should the Power receive the necessary approval, Davies is eager to expedite the deal for Lukosius. “We’ll collaborate with Craig Cameron and the Gold Coast to ensure this happens swiftly,” he affirmed. Originally drafted as a key forward, Lukosius has shown versatility, and Davies believes he can develop into a crucial part of Port’s forward lineup, especially with recent roster changes. “We envision him as a forward, and we’re excited about the potential development he can undergo with us,” he added.
As the trade period officially kicks off on October 7, the looming deadline of October 16 at 7:30 PM AEST will be critical for Port Adelaide. The next few days will be crucial in shaping the club’s roster for the upcoming season, and fans are keenly watching how these trade negotiations unfold.