St. Kilda Target Out-of-Contract De Goey

St. Kilda have joined a number of clubs in expressing an interest in Collingwood’s talented but troubled midfielder Jordan De Goey. The 22-year-old is nearing the end of his contract with the Magpies, and the Saints are one of a number of AFL outfits who are expected to make a move for De Goey despite his off-field problems. While no serious discussions have taken place between the player and Collingwood, the Magpies are still believed to be interested in signing the midfielder to a new deal, although De Goey is believed to be keen for a fresh start with a different club.

De Goey has been plagued with a string of disciplinary issues during his short career, only recently returning to action after being handed a club suspension following a drink driving ban, only to suffer a hamstring strain which kept him sidelined. The former number-five draft pick might have found himself in hot water on a number of occasions during his time with the ‘Pies but he has proven beyond doubt that he is one of the most exciting midfielders in the league. So, despite his issues, it’s no surprise to see a number of clubs interested in a player who will most likely command $500-60,000 a year when he signs a new contract.

“For Those in Their 20s” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by mikecogh

De Goey would certainly be a great signing for St. Kilda, where he’d fit into their midfield and weigh in at both ends of the field. The 22-year-old has shown on numerous occasions what he’s capable of, racking up 14 points from 14 games last season, including a stand-out four-goal performance from 20 disposals against West Coast in round 18. Having recovered from his recent injury, De Goey was swiftly recalled by the ‘Pies for their game against Adelaide, kicking a goal and recording 15 disposals as Collingwood picked up a crucial win that sees the club now priced at $2.25 in the latest AFL odds to finish in the top eight this season.

While his off-field problems are a factor that need to be considered for teams looking to sign the midfielder, there can be no denying his talent, and that’s why De Goey finds himself on the radar of so many AFL clubs. After joining Collingwood at the 2014 NAB AFL Draft, De Goey signed a two-year extension with the ‘Pies through to the end of 2018 only months later, a deal he is now nearing the end of. The Magpies won’t want to lose such a talented young midfielder, but the number of problems he has brought them may be enough to convince the club’s management that the juice just isn’t worth the squeeze.

Both Collingwood and De Goey have this season to contend with before any real decision will be made regarding the midfielder’s future. Sitting just outside the top-eight with two wins and two losses from the opening four rounds of the season, the club will be desperate to find the consistency they will need to end a five-year wait to reach the finals.