Carlton is set to improve its small forward stocks with the signing of Port Adelaide livewire Orazio Fantasia.
As first reported by Seven’s Mitch Cleary, Fantasia will sign a two-year deal at Carlton, overlooking other reported suitors.
The 28-year-old has played 99 games across stints at Port Adelaide and previously Essendon, with injury woes limiting him to just four senior appearances in the past two seasons.
But he’s shown significant upside, having previously kicked 39 goals in a season.
“Orazio Fantasia will join the Blues on a two-year deal, reuniting with coach Michael Voss — his old assistant coach at the Power,” Cleary told 7News.
“While Fantasia’s only played four games in the last two years through injury, the Blues see significant upside for a small forward who’s just turned 28, and once kicked 39 goals in a season at Essendon.”
He added: “His future has taken a twist in recent weeks.
Exclusive: Orazio Fantasia has committed to Carlton on a two-year deal.
— Mitch Cleary (@cleary_mitch) October 27, 2023
He’ll join as a Delisted Free Agent. The 28-year-old reunites with Michael Voss, his one-time Port Adelaide assistant coach @7NewsMelbourne
“First, talks for a one-year deal to potentially stay at the Power, Fantasia then had a medical with GWS who were exploring a rookie contract, only then to be guaranteed two years on the senior list at the Blues, where he’ll move as a delisted free agent.”
Fantasia will join the Blues as a delisted free agent, a move that is yet to be made official. He’s also yet to be delisted by the Power but despite the offer to stay, he’ll turn down a contract to stay at Alberton.
He joins the likes of Matt Cottrell, Lachie Fogarty, Jack Martin, Jesse Motlop and Matt Owies in fighting for a spot in Michael Voss’ best team.