Hawthorn Coach Discusses Calsher Dear's Trade Speculations

Hawthorn coach Sam Mitchell has addressed the trade rumors surrounding young forward Calsher Dear, particularly after seeing him in a Melbourne jumper on social media, which he found unsettling.

Dear's position at Hawthorn is uncertain, especially with the anticipated addition of Gold Coast free agent Ben King, prompting interest from rival clubs including Melbourne, Collingwood, St Kilda, Geelong, and Carlton. He is currently considering a two-year contract offer from Hawthorn.

Mitchell noted that while Dear has had productive discussions with the team, the contract negotiations have been prolonged as he aims to secure a spot in the lineup. Despite recent strong performances in the reserves, where he scored nine goals in five games, Dear faces stiff competition for forward positions, particularly with other players like Mitch Lewis and Jack Gunston also vying for spots.