Clubs moving on Saad

CARLTON and Essendon have emerged as the frontrunners to secure Gold Coast speedster Adam Saad as he explores a return to Melbourne.

The Suns are understanding of Saad’s family and religious ties that have prompted the backman to consider a move but the Blues and Bombers would have to satisfy Gold Coast with a second-round draft pick or equivalent player to seal the deal.

The Coburg product was 10th in the Suns’ best and fairest in his third AFL season and is on holiday in Thailand.

Carlton yesterday said it would seek more information from Saad, 23, and his manager about his intentions for 2018.

Carlton have used club legends Stephen Kernahan and Chris Judd in a bid to lure Tom Rockliff from Brisbane.

Rockliff faces a choice between the Blues and Port Adelaide, with Lions officials saying he was likely to leave the Lions.