Big Xerri could jump for ruck role

TRISTAN Xerri is the newest name on the ruck merry-go-round as implications from Tiger Callum Coleman-Jones’ impending arrival at North Melbourne hit.

St Kilda is on the hunt for a younger ruckman to partner Rowan Marshall beyond next year, which looms as big man Paddy Ryder’s last in the AFL.

It is understood the Saints have homed in on contracted Kangaroo

Xerri after also showing interest in Western Bulldog Jordon Sweet, who remains without a contract and is linked to West Coast.

The Bulldogs have made Sweet an offer, but he was overlooked in the finals for Lewis Young, who has requested a trade to Carlton.

North Melbourne would have to be willing to trade Xerri, who is contracted next season.

He averaged 21.5 disposals, 15.5 contested possessions, 5.5 clearances and 26.2 hit-outs in six VFL games this year, but played only eight matches at senior level.

Todd Goldstein remains the No.1 ruck option at the Roos is 34 next year.

Tom Campbell kept 201cm Xerri out of the side until round 13 as Goldstein’s deputy.

North has identified ColemanJones as Goldstein’s successor and must broker a trade with Richmond before next Wednesday.

But that would leave Xerri, 22, third in line in the ruck.