GOLD Coast has completed a trade for Richmond defender Daniel Rioli, reuniting the half-back with coach Damien Hardwick.
Rioli has joined the Suns on a five-year contract in exchange for picks six and 23, while the Suns will get four late picks - 51, 61, 70 and 76 - back from the Tigers.
TRADE TRACKER Every move as they happen
INDICATIVE DRAFT ORDER Your club's picks as they stand
The move further bolsters the Tigers' draft hand, with Richmond now holding eight of the first 24 picks in this year's draft - 1, 6, 10, 11, 18, 20, 23 and 24 in this year's draft.
The four later picks will help the Suns match a bid on star Academy prospect Leo Lombard on draft night.
"Daniel brings class and pace to our backline which we are really excited about," Suns' talent boss Craig Cameron said.
"We know he has great experience being in a successful system and believe he will be a valuable leader for our group in the coming years."
Rioli joins Liam Baker, Shai Bolton and Jack Graham in departing the Tigers during this trade and free agency period.
Rioli, who won the Jack Dyer Medal this year, reunites with Hardwick, who coached the Tigers to three premierships between 2017 and 2020.
"While we are disappointed Daniel has chosen to leave the Club, we respect his decision and everything he gave to Richmond across nine years," Tigers footy boss Blair Hartley said.
"We are happy to have found a mutually beneficial trade that allows for Daniel to depart, and we wish him well for the future.
"He will forever be remembered as a triple-premiership player at Richmond.
"We are delighted to have added two more quality selections, putting us in a great position to bring in some of the best youngsters in this year’s strong talent pool."
The 27-year-old's arrival is also a huge boost for the Suns after their search for a half-back.
Gold Coast tried Jack Lukosius and Alex Sexton in defence in 2024, while Sam Flanders starred before getting more time in the midfield.
That area of the ground is set to be further strengthened with the arrival of John Noble, who has requested a trade to the Suns from Collingwood.
