BOMBERS LAND SHIEL
GWS will demand two first-round picks for Dylan Shiel after he yesterday announced he wanted to pursue a flag with Essendon in a deal that could cost him $2 million over six years.
But the Bombers will try to land the classy playmaker with its pick No.9 in this year’s national draft and a small sweetener, probably a future second or thirdround selection.
The Giants have salary-cap issues and, in part, encouraged Shiel to talk to rival clubs.
The stand-off has already started, but it won’t be insurmountable. ‘’There’s eight days to go, and it will get done,’’ a source close to the deal said yesterday.
But a Giants insider said last night the club rated Shiel better than Adam Treloar who was traded to Collingwood for two first-round selections.
“Treloar was worth two picks and this bloke is an All-Australian, so he’s also worth two picks,’’ the insider said.
“Absolutely, we will not shift on that.’’
News Corp learned yesterday that the Bombers were Shiel’s preferred club, ending weeks-long lavishing from the Bombers, Hawthorn, St Kilda and Carlton.
He was swayed by a belief that Essendon would have on-field success and the thrill of playing in front of blockbuster crowds such as Anzac Day.
The Bombers’ bid was the lowest of the four offers made to the 25-year-old, believed to be less than $1 million a season.
The six-year deal is believed to be more than $2 million less than Shiel could have earned elsewhere.
It’s understood the Hawks ran second to the Bombers to secure the inaugural Giant.
The classy midfielder flew into Melbourne yesterday morning to meet his managers, Paul Connors and Robbie D’Orazio, and at lunchtime started making calls to all four clubs.
Hawks coach Alastair Clarkson was the first number dialled and the Bombers the last – with the good news.
Connors said yesterday he expected the deal to be completed but said Shiel had only just made up his mind to play with the Bombers.
The Giants said in a statement yesterday: “The Giants are prepared to discuss potential trade options with the Bombers that see an appropriate return for the club. Dylan is contracted for the 2019 season and he will remain a Giant should a suitable trade not be reached”