Brisbane midfielder Deven Robertson could be a player of interest this trade period according to Channel Seven’s Mitch Cleary.
Coming out of contract at the end of the year, Cleary believes the 27-gamer could be of interest to clubs as he struggles to earn a game for the Lions in 2023.
Given that Robertson was reportedly targeted by West Coast last year when he was under contract, Cleary believes the 21-year-old could look for increased opportunities as the Lions’ midfield continues to bulge.
“This is what happens when you bring in a (Josh) Dunkley and an (Will) Ashcroft, players fall out,” Cleary said on the Tradies Podcast.
“West Coast last year – while under contract – had a look at Deven Robertson.
“The Lions said, ‘No, we love what he does as a defensive midfielder, he’s important to us’.
“He had 10 tackles in the Prelim against Geelong, he’s a two-way runner in the midfield.
“But he’s playing VFL, he was the sub the week before (in the AFL).”
Considering West Coast have already flagged an interest in the WA product, Cleary believes that Perth may be a likely destination for Robertson if he does look to leave Brisbane.
“The Eagles could (go back at him),” Cleary said.
“I’m not saying he’s going to revolutionise the Eagles, but he’s one that’d be on their whiteboard right now.
“Deven Robertson is a ready-made option at 21, he might come in and be a 10-year midfielder for them.
“He’s already got the development under his belt, he’s a WA kid.
“They had a go at him last year and the Lions said, ‘Stay’, but now he’s playing twos.”
On top of Brisbane’s current on-ball depth, Cleary believes Robertson could be further convinced to depart knowing that another addition could soon arrive in father-son product Levi Ashcroft.
“The other factor is this, Will Ashcroft, his brother Levi in the 2024 Draft is already being touted as a top prospect,” Cleary explained.
“He’s going to have to come in and play midfield at some stage.
“If I’m Deven Robertson, I’m looking at opportunities elsewhere and it’s probably at the west through the Eagles who had a crack last year.”
Robertson responded solidly to his Round 3 AFL axing as he accumulated 23 disposals and kicked a goal is Brisbane’s VFL win over Footscray last Thursday.