Ben King Joins Hawthorn After Gold Coast Declines Bid

Hawthorn has officially signed forward Ben King after Gold Coast decided not to match the bid for the restricted free agent. King's move comes after he expressed a preference for Hawthorn following the home-and-away season, during which he scored 131 goals over the last two seasons with the Suns.

As part of the agreement, Gold Coast will receive Pick 7 as compensation for King. The signing follows the addition of Zach Merrett, while negotiations are ongoing to bring Josh Goater to the club. Additionally, the clubs are discussing a separate trade involving Aidan Schubert, which may take place later on Friday.

Reports suggest that Hawthorn's Sam Butler could be included in this deal, with the Suns' 2028 second-round selection being a key element in the trade. Finn Maginness is also expected to leave the club as part of the broader trade arrangements supporting the Zak Butters deal.