Hawthorn emerges as latest suitor for Oscar Allen but Brisbane still lead the race for West Coast captain

Hawthorn has emerged as a major suitor for looming West Coast free agent Oscar Allen. Brisbane remains the front runner to secure the Eagles’ co-captain should he depart his home State at the end of the season, but the Hawks have thrown their hat in the ring as a serious contender. SIGN UP HERE FOR FREE FOOTY TIPPING TO WIN A SHARE OF $85K The Eagles are yet to put an acceptable long-term deal on the table to Allen’s management and it is believed the Hawks, like Brisbane, are prepared to offer a top-end, long-term contract. West Coast has so far only offered a medium-term contract. Allen, who turns 26 this month, will qualify as a restricted free agent at the end of this season, meaning West Coast will be able to match any bid for him. Both Brisbane and Hawthorn are in the market for a key forward, while several other Victorian clubs have also expressed interest. In 2023, Allen was offered long-term, multi-million dollar deals by at least three AFL clubs in the eastern States. The West Australian understands the offers were in excess of $1 million per season and would run for seven to 10 years. One of the clubs also offered the captaincy. The Lions want a long-term replacement for premiership forward Joe Daniher, who retired at the end of last season, and added foundation Gold Coast forward Sam Day in last November’s pre-season draft after he was delisted by the Suns. Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell looms as a key weapon in discussions. Mitchell was key to Tom Barrass’ departure from West Coast to Hawthorn after a mid-season catch-up last season. The Hawks’ mentor was also photographed at Barrass’ recent wedding seated alongside Harley Reid. Complicating the Eagles’ plans is the future of Reid. The No. 1 draft pick is in the second season of a three-year deal with reports rival clubs are willing to offer up to $20 million over a decade. The Eagles have also signed All-Australian forward Jake Waterman on a five-year extension that ties him to the club til the end of 2029. The AFL now requires any contract longer than six years to be ticked off by the club’s board and executive. The Eagles’ list rebuild means they are not expected to challenge for their fifth premiership for a minimum of four or five years. They have turned over half the list since the end of the 2022 season and have a new coach, Andrew McQualter. Allen has a big decision to make over whether he invests in the rebuild or secures his long-term future. Recently engaged, Allen’s free agency status will only come around once and an AFL career is a fleeting one. Speaking at the Eagles’ launch this season, Allen spoke of the four pillars the club established at last year’s internal review — elite standards, shared ambition, honesty and belonging. “I believe the last pillar of belonging is the one we should hold dearest,” he said. “We want everyone in this room to feel as though they belong to the West Coast Eagles. “We want to welcome fans into the football club and give them that feeling of community that sporting organisation can bring to every level.” McQualter this week said of Allen and the fact he remained unsigned ahead of free agency: “Part of the landscape of AFL football is we’re starting to understand is this is what it will be a little bit. “We love Oscar in our team, we love him at our club. He’s been a great player for a period of time now and he’s going to lead our team really well this year.” Allen told afl.com.au earier this year he was “unsure” about the future. “It’s probably something you don’t think about when you’re playing,” Allen said of his future call. “You’ve kinda just got your head in the sand trying to get better ery day. “I’m not sure what the future lies, but I have enjoyed, and am still enjoying, my time with the footy club. “That’s why guys have managers I suppose, so they can look over those things for you. “I grew up in Western Australia and am really fortunate to co-captain the footy club. I clearly love the football club. I’m sure things will get worked out.” Allen missed the Eagles final practice match against North Melbourne to attend a family wedding, but has had a largely uninterrupted pre-season and is expected to play in their round one season opener against Gold Coast at Optus Stadium on March 16. Allen played the last 10 games in 2024 after overcoming a knee injury from round one. Allen’s confidence in his knee has returned, but his training loads will still be monitored throughout the season. His strong finish to 2024 featured a five-goal haul in a come-from-behind win over North Melbourne. That followed a stellar 2023 when he kicked 53 goals in a wooden spoon team that managed only three wins.