Lloyd says Hawks win Merrett trade

A trade between the Hawthorn Football Club and the Essendon Football Club involving midfielder Zach Merrett has been completed. The agreement sees Merrett move from Essendon, known as the Bombers, to Hawthorn, the Hawks.

Zach Merrett, a former Brownlow Medal contender and long‑time Essendon player, will join the Hawks as part of the deal. Details of the exchange, including any draft picks or additional players, have not been disclosed in the available commentary.

Former Essendon champion Matthew Lloyd, who is widely regarded as a club legend, commented on the transaction, stating that Hawthorn has emerged as the winner of the trade. Lloyd’s assessment reflects his view of the balance of value exchanged between the two clubs.

Lloyd’s remarks were reported shortly after the trade was announced, highlighting the perception among some former players that the Hawks have secured a favorable outcome from the arrangement.