MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 04: Shai Bolton of the Tigers marks during a Richmond Tigers AFL training session at Punt Road Oval on June 04, 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)
Fremantle Dockers are reportedly targeting two Richmond stars, Liam Baker and Shai Bolton, as they plan to use their AFL draft resources to bring these players back to Western Australia. Both Western Australian clubs are interested in Baker, whose contract expires at the end of the season. Meanwhile, the Dockers are also eyeing Bolton, despite his contract with Richmond running until 2028. Channel Nine’s Xander McGuire reports that Fremantle is preparing a significant trade move to acquire these talents.
The Fremantle Dockers have made a move for Richmond’s Shai Bolton, with the 25-year-old reportedly considering the offer. This effort comes alongside their pursuit of Liam Baker, who is also being targeted by both Western Australian clubs. Despite Bolton being contracted with Richmond until 2028, the Tigers will demand a high price if he chooses to leave, as he is considered crucial to their rebuilding efforts. Bolton is expected to return to Richmond’s lineup this weekend.
The Fremantle Dockers are aiming to use their three first-round draft picks, acquired through trades with Adelaide and Collingwood, to secure key players from Richmond and accelerate the Tigers’ rebuild. Liam Baker might join the Dockers via free agency if he doesn’t re-sign with Richmond. Fremantle had shown interest in Sydney’s Logan McDonald but have shifted focus. Dockers chair Chris Sutherland mentioned that the team is in a favorable position, either making trades or comfortably using their three first-round selections.
