McCarthy wants out, seeks trade to Brisbane
GEELONG will seek a draft pick from Brisbane after small forward Lincoln McCarthy yesterday requested a trade to the Lions.
McCarthy yesterday met with the Cats and informed the club he wished to join the Lions after passing a medical examination with Brisbane on Tuesday.
The Cats had offered the out-of-contract McCarthy a new deal to continue his career in Geelong, believing he was very much part of their forward plans despite his injury troubles.
But the Lions have reportedly offered the livewire a sweeter deal.
McCarthy is likely to receive a two-year deal at the Lions, potentially with trigger clauses for a third season.
Given his injury history, and the immediate value he would add to the Lions’ forward line when fit, Brisbane’s offer is one that was too good to refuse.
“Lincoln McCarthy met with the club today and advised that he would like to continue his career with the Brisbane Lions,” the Cats said in a statement last night.
“As such the club will meet with the Lions during trade period to explore a trade that is acceptable to both parties.”
If the Cats could get a thirdround pick for McCarthy, that would be a good return.
McCarthy made his debut at Geelong in 2012 and has kicked 25 goals in his 29 games over a career ravaged by foot, hip and soft tissue injuries.
He finished the season in Geelong’s VFL side after missing the bulk of the second half of the season with a hamstring injury.
“I have a decision to make, but it’s not that easy. I’m not a free agent,” McCarthy said earlier this month on reports he was weighing up a move to Brisbane.
“I love Geelong, all my teammates and coaches and I love living there. It’s purely, ‘Am I burnt out or am I keen to keep going?’ That’s where my decision will be’.”
McCarthy’s departure leaves the Cats light on for small forwards after Cory Gregson was delisted last week, coupled with uncertainty around Nakia Cockatoo’s durability. Luke Dahlhaus will join Geelong on a four-year deal to add grunt to a forward line exposed for lacking defensive pressure.