WA’s Mitch McGovern requests trade out of Adelaide Crows

[Ulquiorra]

Fremantle and West Coast are expected to throw their hat in the ring in the fight to secure Mitch McGovern after the WA product requested a trade away from Adelaide.

Almost a year to the day after signing a new three-year deal at the Crows, McGovern informed Adelaide that he is keen to leave the club.

The 23-year-old Albany junior has played 48 games in three seasons with the Crows, but could only manage 12 senior appearances this year.

Carlton is reportedly the frontrunner to secure the key forward’s services, but both WA clubs could yet have a say.

McGovern’s brother Jeremy last month signed a long-term deal to stay at West Coast, while the pair’s father Andrew played at Fremantle.

The Dockers missed out on prying McGovern away from Adelaide when he signed his new deal last August.

Crows head of football Brett Burton said Adelaide would entertain a trade for an appropriate level of compensation.

“We are open minded and happy to explore the options available with Mitch and his manager,” Burton said.

“However, the needs of the Club will be held as a high priority in any possible negotiation, especially given he is a contracted player.”