Sydney defender Joel Hamling could be on the move again, with Greater Western Sydney considering a bid for the experienced backman ahead of the off-season.
The 32-year-old remains without a contract extension at the Swans and, according to AFL Media’s Josh Gabelich, has drawn interest from the Giants as they prepare for the likely exit of intercept defender Leek Aleer in October.
Giants eye defensive reinforcements
Hamling, who is an unrestricted free agent, has featured in 14 senior matches this year, his busiest campaign since 2019 at Fremantle, when he played 22 games. But despite his return to consistent football, he sits behind Dane Rampe, Tom McCartin and Lewis Melican in the pecking order at Sydney, with Nick Blakey also providing height in defence.
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Gabelich reported that Hamling is one of several players on the Giants’ radar, alongside Essendon’s Jayden Laverde, Hawthorn’s Sam Frost and Richmond’s Jacob Koschitzke.
With key defenders Sam Taylor and Jack Buckley each sidelined at stages this season, GWS coach Adam Kingsley is thought to be keen on adding experienced cover.
Hamling’s career has already spanned four clubs. Drafted by Geelong in 2011, he failed to make a senior appearance before joining the Western Bulldogs, where he played in their 2016 premiership.
Six years at Fremantle followed before he crossed to Sydney in 2024. A move to the Giants would make him a rare five-club AFL footballer.