Sydney’s pursuit of Charlie Curnow has sparked fresh debate over just what it would take for Carlton to part with their marquee forward.
The Swans have reportedly sounded out Curnow’s camp ahead of the 2026 season, with Matthew Lloyd insisting any offer must come at a premium.
Speaking on Wide World of Sports, Lloyd said the Blues should not settle for draft picks or fringe talent if Sydney push for a trade. “I’d be asking for one of the big three,” he declared. “If they want the big forward, they have to give a gun midfielder that Carlton desperately need.”
A perfect fit, but at what price?
The idea of Curnow in red and white has attracted plenty of admirers. Melbourne great Garry Lyon told AFL 360 the dual Coleman Medallist “fits the history of the Sydney Swans and what they’ve been able to do in terms of attracting big-name key forwards with a profile and a presence … He’d be perfect. He’d be absolutely perfect for the Sydney Swans.”
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Yet Carlton hold the cards.
Curnow is under contract until 2029, meaning a move would require him to request a trade, and even then, the Blues could simply refuse.
Lyon suggested they should publicly shut the door but remain open to “something crazy” landing on their desk. “History is littered with players and clubs who have declared that ‘under no circumstances will we take the bait’ – and then two days later they go: ‘Changed our mind, a deal’s been done.’”