McCartney demands Giant compensation for losing big forward Cameron

GREATER Western Sydney is determined to get its hands on Geelong’s “assets” as part of a deal for Jeremy Cameron.

And it is hunting a firstround pick for Jye Caldwell.

List boss Jason McCartney confirmed that the Giants were “keen to be compensated well” for Cameron’s departure after the key forward declared his intention to join the Cats.

But they have discussed the prospect of him staying.

The Giants matched Geelong’s free-agency offer, sparking the need to strike a trade which the Giants are determined should favour them, with McCartney adamant that Cameron’s worth be recognised.

“Arguably, Jeremy’s been the best player in our club’s history over the nine years and his record speaks for itself — All-Australian twice and Coleman medallist a year ago,” he said on ABC Radio.

“He’s one we didn’t want to lose and he’s in the prime of his football career.

“So the reason we matched the free agency was we weren’t going to be satisfied with the compensation we would be handed for a player of that calibre.

“Geelong has some assets in regards to players and also some nice selections that we’d be interested in looking at a combination of what we can do in order to facilitate that move for Jeremy.”

The Cats received three first-round picks from West Coast in exchange for Tim Kelly last year – including future picks – which McCartney said could prove a comparative situation.

“We’re keen to get compensated well, there’s no doubt about that,” he said.

“You look at every trade to get some data and the history … I suppose with Tim Kelly last year, he was only 18 months younger than Jeremy.

“A fantastic midfielder, but had only been at the Cats for two years.

“We need to be compensated well.

“And I’m sure that (Cats’ list boss) Stephen Wells and Geelong will be keen to work through that with us to get the result that we desire.”