St Kilda and Richmond are showing interest in Essendon midfielder Andrew McGrath, according to Eddie McGuire.
McGrath, the No.1 pick in the 2016 National Draft, comes out of contract at the end of the season.
McGuire understands the Saints and Tigers are closely monitoring the Bombers vice-captain.
The former Collingwood president told Channel Nine’s Footy Classified on Wednesday night: “Is he the next captain, or is he trade bait?
“Because I know there are two clubs who are into him at the moment.”
Caroline Wilson asked: “Who are they?”
McGuire replied: “St Kilda and Richmond.
“I think they’re looking at him very closely.
“Is this the opportunity, because they’ve got so many of the same type, to maybe flick one out, get another player in?”
Subscribe to the SEN YouTube channel for the latest videos!
McGrath has been touted as a possible future Essendon captain, but former AFL coach Ross Lyon believes Zach Merrett should succeed Dyson Heppell in the role.
“He’s not performing to a pick one level as I see it,” Lyon said of McGrath.
“I think he’s a good solid player and he’s got great character, but if you’re not going forward as a club, maybe you cut your loss … but what are you going to get for him?
“I think Merrett’s the next captain. No one prepares better than Merrett and competes more consistently than Merrett and he’s been on the outer in leadership.
“To me, he’s got the intensity and the will and the drive to be their captain.”
McGrath, a former Rising Star winner, is averaging 22 disposals per game in 2022.
The 23-year-old has played 104 games for Essendon.