Kangaroos trade for Swans defender Nick Blakey in major deal

North Melbourne has acquired defender Nick Blakey from Sydney in a trade finalized on October 12, 2026. Blakey, a 2024 All-Australian, joins the Kangaroos as part of a complex trade that secures the Swans three additional draft picks, including the No. 6 selection. The deal also involves North’s first-round and second-round picks in future drafts. Blakey received an eight-year offer worth over $11 million from the Kangaroos, and this move follows a club-imposed ban involving Blakey and four other Sydney players. North Melbourne is now focused on pursuing Adelaide's Nick Murray, having offered the Crows pick 33 and their first-round pick for next season.

• 11:05 PMAFL — Done deal! Kangaroos land Swans star in blockbuster move