Melbourne Demons stars Clayton Oliver and Christian Petracca may be traded despite being contracted. Geelong previously showed interest in Oliver, whose hefty contract averages $1.3 million a season. Oliver responded to reports about his future with an Instagram post. Petracca has already met with Adelaide and spoken with Gold Coast coach Damien Hardwick. Judd McVee requested a trade to Fremantle, and Charlie Spargo will leave for North Melbourne. Oliver’s off-field issues and a desire for cultural change within Melbourne are contributing factors. His value is uncertain due to his contract and recent performance.

Highlights

Here are the key highlights from the article:

• Clayton Oliver’s future at Melbourne Demons is uncertain for the third consecutive post-season, with reports suggesting he’s not guaranteed a spot in the senior side.
• Geelong was interested in Oliver last year, willing to take on most of his contract (averaging around $1.3 million per season).
• Melbourne has a new coach and CEO (ex-Geelong assistant King and Paul Guerra respectively), leading to a “hard-headed stand” on Oliver and veteran defender Steven May.
• Christian Petracca has been given the green light to explore his options. He has already met with Adelaide and spoken with Gold Coast.
• Oliver’s off-field issues in 2023 caused frustration, but they haven’t been as significant in 2025.
• Melbourne desires a cultural overhaul.
• Judd McVee has requested a trade to Fremantle, and Charlie Spargo will leave for North Melbourne as a free agent.
• Geelong might again be an option for Oliver, although they also aim to sign James Worpel.
• There was a time that the president assured him he was not going anywhere
• Oliver’s trade value is unclear due to his contract and recent performance dip.
• The Demons didn’t win any finals following their 2021 premiership win, and finished 14th the past two seasons.

Melbourne Demons in Disarray? Oliver, Petracca, and a Potential Cultural Earthquake

The Melbourne Demons, a team once brimming with premiership glory and dynastic potential, find themselves at a crossroads. Rumours swirl, key players are reportedly exploring options, and a potential cultural overhaul threatens to shake the very foundation of the club. Is this the end of an era for the Demons, or a necessary, albeit painful, step toward a brighter future? Let’s dive into the heart of the turmoil.

(Image of Clayton Oliver looking defiant, as if ready for a fight)

Clayton Oliver: From Untouchable to Trade Bait?

For the third consecutive post-season, Clayton Oliver, the four-time Best & Fairest winner, finds himself at the center of trade speculation. This time, however, the whispers carry a chilling weight of finality. Reports suggest that Oliver is no longer guaranteed a spot in the senior side, a dramatic shift for a player once considered the cornerstone of the Demons’ midfield.

A History of Courtship: Geelong’s Persistent Pursuit

Last year, Geelong made a strong play for Oliver, engaging in meetings, including a visit to Rhys Stanley’s farm, to woo the star midfielder. The Cats were reportedly willing to absorb the bulk of Oliver’s hefty contract, which averages around $1.3 million per season.

• The sticking point: The Demons ultimately rejected Geelong’s offer, deeming it unacceptable.

A Shifting Landscape: New Leadership, New Priorities

The departure of premiership coach Simon Goodwin, replaced by a former Geelong assistant, King, and the appointment of Paul Guerra as CEO, signal a significant shift in the club’s leadership and, potentially, its philosophy.

Is this new leadership team adopting a more ruthless, hard-headed approach? It appears so, as evidenced by their willingness to consider offers for not only Oliver but also star veteran defender Steven May.

Oliver’s Response: Defiance and Uncertainty

In response to the reports, Oliver took to Instagram, posting a photo of himself playing for the Casey Demons in the VFL, accompanied by the caption: “Actually doesn’t look too bad on me.” Is this a sign of defiance, acceptance, or simply a player trying to maintain a brave face amidst unsettling rumours?

“It’s never easy when your future is uncertain. The emotional toll can be immense, not just for the player, but for their family and support network.” – Anonymous AFL Commentator.

(Image of Christian Petracca looking contemplative)

Christian Petracca: Granted Permission to Explore Options

In a move that sent shockwaves through the AFL community, Norm Smith medallist Christian Petracca has also been given the green light to explore his options. Petracca, contracted for a further four years on a similar lucrative deal to Oliver, has already met with Adelaide and spoken to Gold Coast coach Damien Hardwick.

• Adelaide’s Interest: The Crows, hungry for midfield firepower, are reportedly very keen.
• Gold Coast’s Allure: The Suns, under the guidance of Damien Hardwick, offer a fresh start and a chance to build something special.

The Financial Implications: Who Pays the Price?

The financial implications of trading Oliver and Petracca are complex. Melbourne’s willingness to contribute to their hefty wages as part of any trade remains a key factor. While Oliver reportedly considered a pay cut during Geelong’s previous pursuit, the current climate suggests a more significant financial burden for the Demons. Oliver is contracted until the end of 2030, a staggering commitment that further complicates any potential deal.

Off-Field Concerns: A Shadow Over Oliver’s Brilliance

Oliver’s off-field issues in 2023, which included training away from the team, have undoubtedly contributed to the current situation. While reports suggest these issues have been less problematic in 2025, the perception remains. This could be a factor in the teams willing to make a trade deal, but at what cost?

A Cultural Overhaul: A Necessary Evil?

Melbourne’s stance on Oliver and Petracca is being widely interpreted as a commitment to a cultural overhaul. Is the club willing to sacrifice talent for character? Are they prioritizing team harmony over individual brilliance? This is a high-stakes gamble that could either rejuvenate the Demons or further derail their premiership aspirations.

Statistical Breakdown: Oliver’s Declining Output

While Oliver remains a talented player, his statistical output has dipped in recent seasons. After averaging 29 or more disposals in every season bar one from 2017-23, his average dropped to 23 last year before improving slightly to 25.5 this past season.

• 2017-2023 (Excluding 2020): Average disposals of 29+ per season.
• 2024: 23 disposals per game.
• 2025: 25.5 disposals per game.

This decline, coupled with his off-field issues, may be impacting his perceived value across the league.

Other Departures: A Mass Exodus?

The potential departures of Oliver and Petracca are not isolated incidents. Judd McVee has requested a trade to Fremantle, while Charlie Spargo is set to join North Melbourne in free agency. Is this the beginning of a mass exodus from the Demons?

• Judd McVee: Requested trade to Fremantle.
• Charlie Spargo: Set to join North Melbourne in free agency.

Geelong’s Lingering Interest: A Potential Reunion?

Despite pursuing James Worpel in free agency, Geelong remains a potential destination for Oliver. Could a reunion be on the cards? The Cats’ need for midfield depth and Oliver’s previous willingness to join the club suggest that this option cannot be ruled out.

From “Teary” to Trade Table: A President’s Broken Promise

Just eight months ago, outgoing president Brad Green reassured Oliver that he was “not going anywhere,” even telling him he was loved and considered a future hall of famer at the club. This abrupt reversal highlights the dramatic shift in the Demons’ thinking and the volatile nature of the AFL landscape.

“I said [to Oliver], ‘It’s OK, mate. I love you, I love having you around the club, you’re a four-time B&F winner, you’re going to go down as one of our champion players and [a] hall of famer at our football club, and you’re going to be a big part of our future.'” – Brad Green, February 2025.

The Road Ahead: Uncertainty and Hope

The Melbourne Demons face a challenging period of transition. The potential departures of key players, coupled with a cultural overhaul, create a sense of uncertainty. However, this upheaval could also be an opportunity for the Demons to rebuild, revitalize, and emerge stronger than ever.

The question is: Will they be able to navigate this storm and return to premiership contention?

A Call to Action:

• Melbourne Demons Fans: Stay strong! The club needs your support more than ever.
• AFL Community: What are your thoughts on the Demons’ situation? Share your opinions in the comments below!
• Stay Informed: Sign up for the Real Footy newsletter to stay up-to-date with the latest AFL news and analysis. [Link to Newsletter Sign-up]

(Image of the Melbourne Demons logo with a determined feel)

The Demons’ destiny hangs in the balance. Only time will tell if they can rise from the ashes and reclaim their place among the AFL’s elite.