In what could be one of the most significant player moves in recent AFL memory, Melbourne Demons superstar Christian Petracca has reportedly expressed his desire to join Collingwood before the conclusion of his current contract in 2029. Sources close to Petracca have indicated that the 28-year-old midfield dynamo is considering reshaping his future in the AFL, setting the stage for a potential blockbuster move that could redefine both clubs’ premiership aspirations.
Background on Petracca’s Current Deal
Christian Petracca, widely regarded as one of the premier midfielders in the competition, signed a landmark seven-year contract extension with Melbourne in May 2021. The deal, which ties him to the Demons until the end of the 2029 season, was celebrated as a massive win for the club’s long-term ambitions.
•Contract Length: 7 years (2023–2029)
•Contract Value: Estimated between $6 million and $6.5 million
•Annual Salary: Reportedly exceeding $1 million per season
•Expiry: End of 2029 AFL season
•Age at Contract End: 33
The agreement was designed to ensure Petracca would remain a one-club player, playing a critical role in Melbourne’s push for sustained success following their 2021 premiership breakthrough.
The Collingwood Connection
Despite his deep ties to the Demons, recent developments suggest Petracca may have other plans before hanging up the boots. Sources reveal that Petracca harbors a strong ambition to don the black and white stripes of Collingwood Football Club before the twilight of his career.
It is understood that Petracca’s motivation is not purely financial. The star midfielder reportedly admires Collingwood’s storied history, passionate supporter base, and premiership-winning culture under Craig McRae. Additionally, family ties and personal relationships within the Collingwood setup may be influencing his desire for a new challenge.
Insiders suggest that Petracca sees a potential move to Collingwood as an opportunity to add another chapter to his decorated career — aiming to be part of another flag tilt with one of the AFL’s biggest powerhouse clubs.
Potential Contract Restructure
To make this ambitious shift possible, Petracca may explore an early contract restructure or trade request, likely around the 2026–2027 mark, giving both Melbourne and Collingwood time to plan accordingly. This scenario would allow Melbourne to receive significant trade compensation while also honoring Petracca’s contribution to the club.
Alternatively, Petracca may complete his current deal with Melbourne but join Collingwood as a free agent before retiring, depending on salary cap dynamics and list needs at the time.
Melbourne’s Position
Melbourne remains publicly committed to Petracca for the long haul. Club officials have not commented on the speculation, emphasizing the star’s importance to their midfield engine room alongside Clayton Oliver and Jack Viney. Privately, however, Melbourne’s list management team is believed to be closely monitoring the situation, aware of how pivotal Petracca’s decision could be for the club’s future planning.
The Stakes for Collingwood
For Collingwood, the potential arrival of Christian Petracca would represent a stunning recruiting coup. Adding Petracca to a midfield already boasting talents like Nick Daicos, Jordan De Goey, and Tom Mitchell would instantly elevate the Magpies’ standing in the competition.
Such a move could mirror recent AFL trends, where marquee players switch clubs in the later stages of their careers in search of renewed challenges or premiership glory, following examples like Lance Franklin’s move to Sydney or Jeremy Cameron’s switch to Geelong.
What Happens Next
While there is no official trade request or formal contract renegotiation underway at this point, this revelation is sure to send ripples through the AFL community. With the next trade period still months away, all eyes will now be on Petracca, Melbourne, and Collingwood as this potential storyline develops in the coming seasons.
For now, Melbourne fans will hope Petracca stays loyal to the red and blue, but Collingwood’s faithful are beginning to dream of a future where one of the AFL’s most explosive playmakers lines up at the MCG in black and white.
Stay tuned for further updates as this major AFL development continues to unfold.
