Explore the latest developments concerning ‘See it as.
‘See it as collusion’: How Butters will get to Dogs… despite AFL’s ‘secret deal’ warning
Todd Marshall has reportedly emerged as the potential circuit-breaker in a complex deal that could help Port Adelaide teammate Zak Butters land at the Western Bulldogs, while still allowing the Power to pocket the prized pick No.5 as free agency compensation.
High-profile AFL journalist Tom Morris revealed on Monday evening that the Port utility could be sent to the Bulldogs in a separate trade involving significant draft capital, as the clubs explore how to satisfy each other while still unlocking Port’s access to a third first-round pick.
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Bulldogs ‘desperation’ questioned in stunning $18m player trade
The Western Bulldogs got their man, luring star midfielder Zak Butters ahead of rivals Geelong and Richmond, who were also in a race that went down to the wire.
The Cats were reportedly favourites to land the 26-year-old, until the Dogs upped their offer by as much as $3m to a total of $18m over nine years.
Zak Butters is named in the All-Australian team for 2026. AFL Photos via Getty Images
However, this has led to some questioning whether the Bulldogs have overpaid for Butters and whether it may come back to haunt them.
Not only will they have to pay the midfielder effectively 11 per cent of their entire salary cap, but they will also have to trade multiple first round picks to Port Adelaide to get the deal done.
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Behind the curtain on Butters’ decision, Cats legend eyes return
Cal Twomey and Josh Gabelich discuss all the latest footy news on AFL Daily
Check out the Telstra AFLW Rising Star for Round 5, Jade McLay
Cal Twomey and Josh Gabelich discuss all the latest footy news on AFL Daily
Vote now on your favourite goals from Round 5 in the NAB AFLW Premiership season
Vote now on your favourite marks from Round 5 in the NAB AFLW Premiership season
Joel Peterson, Kaitlyn Ferber, and Gemma Bastiani look back at round five of the 2026 NAB AFLW season, naming the in-form team of the competition, a bright spot in a tough year for the Saints, and a young Crow putting her name in lights.
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