North Melbourne is considering a move to sign defender Leek Aleer after St Kilda unexpectedly withdrew their offer. Aleer’s potential transfer to the Saints had seemed likely for weeks following his request for a trade after the Greater Western Sydney Giants’ elimination from the finals. The sudden change has left both Aleer and his manager, Dylan Smith, taken aback.
St Kilda’s decision comes amid an expensive recruitment drive, during which they have signed players such as Carlton’s Tom De Koning and Jack Silvagni, while also trading for Gold Coast midfielder Sam Flanders and West Coast premiership player Liam Ryan. The Saints’ abandonment of their long pursuit of Aleer has surprised many, including the Giants, who are now focused on bringing in experienced Essendon defender Jayden Laverde.
According to Giants football boss Jason McCartney, Aleer is “shattered” by the news. “He’s incredibly disappointed,” McCartney told Trade Radio, adding that Aleer had expressed a deep affection for the Giants. “He loves our footy club and was in tears at the exit interview.” McCartney also reassured that a contract remains in place with Aleer, stating, “He’s more than welcome to be playing at the Giants.”
North Melbourne’s football talent boss, Brady Rawlings, confirmed that the Kangaroos have engaged with Aleer’s management regarding his situation. After finishing in the bottom three of the league for the sixth consecutive season, North Melbourne is eager to enhance their squad, which features a strong midfield but lacks key position players.
“We have been in touch with Leek’s manager,” Rawlings explained. “He is pretty disappointed. We have discussed it as a club; we are still doing the work on it.” Despite their interest in Aleer, Rawlings emphasized that the club would continue to support their existing players when addressing defensive needs.
Several clubs, including the reigning champions, the Brisbane Lions, have already ruled out any interest in Aleer. St Kilda has come under scrutiny from other managers and rival clubs for their abrupt decision to withdraw their offer. As the trade period approaches its end, with only five days remaining, St Kilda has yet to publicly address their reasons for the change.
The situation surrounding Aleer remains fluid, with North Melbourne poised to potentially offer a lifeline to the talented defender. As teams finalize their rosters, the coming days will be crucial for Aleer and his future in the league.
