Shai Bolton Trade Saga REACHES BOILING POINT As Richmond Refuse To Budge

With the AFL trade period in full swing, the Shai Bolton trade saga is fast becoming one of the most talked-about storylines, and it now seems that the move to Fremantle could go right down to the wire as Richmond refuse to back down from their demands.

As it stands, the Tigers are holding out for the Dockers’ top two first-round draft picks in exchange for the star forward, a price that Fremantle have thus far been unwilling to meet.

However, sources close to the negotiations have indicated that Richmond remain staunch in their stance, and it's not hard to see why. With Bolton having established himself as one of the most dynamic and exciting players in the competition, the Tigers know that they have a valuable asset on their hands and are not willing to give him away cheaply.

But Fremantle are also acutely aware of what Bolton could bring to their team, and they are said to be ‘frustrated’ by Richmond’s reluctance to budge on their asking price. The Dockers believe that they are offering a fair deal, and they are reportedly hoping that the Tigers will eventually come around to their way of thinking.

That said, it remains to be seen how much room for negotiation there actually is. With the trade period fast entering its final stages, time is very much of the essence, and there is a growing sense that this deal could go right down to the wire.

One thing that does seem certain is that Shai Bolton will be playing his football at Fremantle next year. The player himself has made no secret of his desire to join the Dockers, and all that remains is for the two clubs to agree on a deal that suits all parties.

In the meantime, the AFL world will be keeping a close eye on this unfolding trade saga, knowing that it could have significant implications for the entire competition come season 2025.