Kane Cornes is surprised by Carlton’s “ridiculous” contract offer to free agent Zac Williams.
The 26-year-old’s move to the Blues was confirmed on Friday, after GWS opted not to match the bid for the restricted free agent.
Despite playing most of his career as a defender, the Blues plan to use Williams in the midfield to support the likes of co-captain Patrick Cripps and Sam Walsh.
Cornes questioned the terms which Williams is joining Carlton on, labelling the six-year deal worth as much as $900,000 per season as excessive.
“I’d be asking Carlton why they think Zac Williams has turned into Chris Judd over one off-season,” he said on AFL Trade Radio’s The Early Trade.
“If the numbers are to be believed, and we believe they are true, it is ridiculous money to pay for a half-back flanker that they’re hoping to turn into a midfielder.
“I’d like to know from the Blues what they’ve seen in Williams – he’s been in the top five of a best and fairest once, averages under 20 disposals a game.
“He has good speed and he’s tough and I like him, but there’s questions over his engine. Is he a full professional the way he turns up to train and play?
“The question I’d be asking why they think he’s Chris Judd over one off-season.”
GWS received first-round compensation – currently pick 10 – as a result of Williams’ departure.