Speaking on AFL.com.au's Gillette Trade Radio, Essendon list manager Adrian Dodoro said once the Bombers have appointed a senior coach to replace James Hird, negotiations would begin.
He expected the new coach's appointment to be imminent.
Since being discarded by Geelong, Chapman has been at the centre of much speculation, and Dodoro confirmed Essendon's interest.
"We haven't spoken to Chappy yet, but we will," Dodoro said.
"We'll do that fairly soon.
"Obviously there's a close relationship with Bomber (Mark Thompson), so out of respect for both parties we'll get everyone together, have a bit of a chat and see where he's at."
Thompson was Chapman's coach at Geelong for 11 seasons, including the 2007 and 2009 premierships, and is favoured to be named Essendon's new coach.
Busy Blues eye Chappy and Podsiadly
Dodoro said not having a coach during the early stages of the trade period had made negotiations difficult.
He did, however, express interest in 29-year-old Sewell, with Hawthorn believed to be open to offers for the in-and-under midfielder.
Dodoro said he had spoken to Sewell's manager Peter Lenton.
"Spots on the list are tight," he said.
"Our major priority was to retain our list and keep it together, which we've done. When you're adding a player at this point in time strategically, I really do need the coach on board and he'll be announced soon.
"Players like Sewelly will be discussed when he's appointed."
Dodoro said a trade to get Stewart Crameri to the Western Bulldogs was still a little way off, with the Bombers believing a second round pick was not enough to get the deal done.
Dodoro said not having a coach during the early stages of the trade period had made negotiations difficult.
He did, however, express interest in 29-year-old Sewell, with Hawthorn believed to be open to offers for the in-and-under midfielder.
Dodoro said he had spoken to Sewell's manager Peter Lenton.
"Spots on the list are tight," he said.
"Our major priority was to retain our list and keep it together, which we've done. When you're adding a player at this point in time strategically, I really do need the coach on board and he'll be announced soon.
"Players like Sewelly will be discussed when he's appointed."
Dodoro said a trade to get Stewart Crameri to the Western Bulldogs was still a little way off, with the Bombers believing a second round pick was not enough to get the deal done.
