Collingwood’s midfield structure, speculation is growing that superstar midfielder Nick Daicos could be involved in a blockbuster trade deal that might bring a dynamic playmaker to the club—one who could dominate center bounces and deliver under pressure during crunch time, perfectly complementing the brilliance of Jamie Elliott in clutch moments.
The Potential Trade Impact
While Nick Daicos has become the face of Collingwood’s midfield brilliance since his debut, AFL insiders suggest that the Magpies could be exploring bold moves to strengthen their list depth, particularly around contested possessions and late-game composure. The rumored trade could open the door for Collingwood to acquire a hardened, explosive on-baller with elite clearance ability—something they’ve occasionally lacked in tight finals contests.
Jamie Elliott’s Role in the Move
Jamie Elliott, Collingwood’s proven match-winner, is renowned for delivering on the biggest stages with game-sealing goals and miraculous moments under pressure. But to maximize his threat inside forward 50, Collingwood has been actively searching for a midfielder who can consistently win first use of the ball at center bounces, applying direct supply to Elliott in the dying moments of games.
With Elliott turning 33 next season, Collingwood knows that time is precious if they’re going to deliver him another premiership before retirement. Adding a midfield playmaker with elite disposal under pressure could be the missing piece that allows Elliott to stay deep forward and focus solely on his unmatched ability to turn games on their head.
Who Could Be Targeted?
Names like Clayton Oliver (Melbourne), Tom Green (GWS), and Jai Newcombe (Hawthorn) have been whispered in AFL circles as potential targets. These players offer brute strength around stoppages and can help tilt the midfield battle Collingwood’s way, especially in finals.
Daicos Family Ties vs Premiership Glory
Of course, any trade involving Nick Daicos would send shockwaves through the AFL. As a Collingwood prodigy, the Daicos name is woven into the club’s very DNA. Trading him would be one of the most daring decisions in the club’s modern history—but with premiership windows short and the AFL landscape ruthless, bold moves are sometimes required for greatness.
Collingwood’s football department, led by Craig Kelly and coach Craig McRae, will need to weigh up whether emotional loyalty outweighs the potential for another flag.
What’s Next?
For now, no official confirmation has been given, but the AFL Trade Period is fast approaching, and murmurs inside club circles are growing louder. Should the deal go ahead, Jamie Elliott’s clutch moments could become even more dangerous with a dominant midfield engine feeding him in the final quarters of September.
Stay tuned—because if this goes down, it could be one of the biggest trades in AFL history.
