ADELAIDE defender Alex Keath has requested a trade to the Western Bulldogs.

The 27-year-old informed the Crows and other interested parties – including St Kilda – of his decision early on Thursday afternoon.

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After a career-best season which included winning the Showdown Medal in his 20th game, Keath was seeking a longer contract to provide security for his future.

After 12 games across his first two seasons in 2017-2018, Keath played 18 matches for the Crows this year, filling the void vacated by injured key back Tom Doedee.

With the Crows attempting to go younger, it is understood the offer from the Dogs far exceeded the deal tabled by the Crows.

Keath also toured St Kilda's facilities earlier this month and had been weighing up a move to Moorabbin.

"I will be forever grateful to the Adelaide Football Club for providing me with the opportunity to test myself at the AFL level,"
Keath said via statement on Thursday.

"Playing with exceptional players and for their passionate supporters has been a highlight of my career. I am now excited by the prospect of becoming part of the emerging Western Bulldogs squad, and hopefully a trade can be facilitated."

The Dogs, who also have interest in Saint Josh Bruce, currently have picks 12, 30, 41, 46 and 48.

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Following the retirements of Tom Boyd, Liam Picken and Dale Morris, the Dogs are believed to have a stockpile of money to target new recruits this off-season.

Keath's call comes ahead of what is expected to be a chaotic Trade Period for the Crows.

Small forward Eddie Betts looks destined to request a trade to Carlton, while contracted key forward Josh Jenkins confirmed he would explore other options on Wednesday. 

Midfielder Brad Crouch, who will become a free agent at the end of 2020, is currently being shopped around by his management to the tune of $5million over five seasons.  

And 27-year-old out-of-contract midfielder Hugh Greenwood is being heavily courted by Gold Coast to bolster their young midfield stocks.