BRAYDON Preuss could be headed for a third AFL home, with Greater Western Sydney and Sydney among the clubs interested in the Melbourne ruckman.
Preuss has two years to run on his deal with the Demons but has dipped to third in line in the club's ruck stocks behind captain Max Gawn and top draft pick Luke Jackson.
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The Giants are searching for a ready-made ruckman after the retirement of Sam Jacobs with one year left to run on his contract, while the Swans are also keen to bolster their ruck division.
Giants veteran Shane Mumford was expected to retire at the end of this season however there is a possibility now that he plays on in 2021.
Preuss has played 10 games in his two seasons with the Demons but was struck by an Achilles injury this season. Melbourne is understood to be open to enquiries about a possible trade for the 25-year-old.
He left North Melbourne at the end of 2018 to join the Demons on a four-year contract and has boosted his development working with Gawn and Melbourne ruck coach Greg Stafford.
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Last year there was eight ruckmen who swapped clubs in the off-season and again rivals are pursuing ready-made players ahead of investing in the draft.
Preuss will be a target, while Richmond is yet to sign up two-time premiership ruckman Toby Nankervis to a new deal.
West Coast's Tom Hickey, who was formerly at Gold Coast and St Kilda, is nestled in behind Eagles star Nic Naitanui in the club's ruck depth chart and has also been a player of interest for clubs.
The 29-year-old has played three games this season and is contracted until the end of 2021 with the Eagles.
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Port Adelaide youngster Sam Hayes has attracted some enquiries but the emerging ruck option won't be leaving Alberton Oval, while Collingwood's Max Lynch, an understudy to star big man Brodie Grundy, is out of contract and has suitors.
Shaun McKernan, who played back-up ruck and as a key forward for Essendon before being delisted last week, will also be considered by clubs looking for players who can fit in the dual role.
