AFL trades 2018: Fremantle pull out of the Jesse Hogan deal

FREMANTLE have dropped a trade period bombshell, withdrawing from the chase for Melbourne forward Jesse Hogan.

Newly appointed Dockers Football manager Peter Bell said the Dockers would not be able to meet Melbourne’s asking price, believed to be two first round draft picks.

“We have been undertaking a due diligence process as part of a possible trade to secure Jesse Hogan,” Bell said.

“As part of that process, we have had discussions with Jesse, the player’s management and Melbourne.

“While discussions were proceeding it became clear that what Melbourne would be seeking for a trade would not be possible for our club to meet.

“As such, we have informed Melbourne and Jesse’s management that we will not be continuing further with the due diligence process.”

Fremantle had flipped draft picks with Port Adelaide, sending the Power pick No.6 for picks 11, 23, 30 and 39.

They are expected to offer GWS pick No.23 for Rory Lobb, although the Giants are believed to want a late first round pick.

It is yet to be seen what the Hogan decision means for Lachie Neale’s bid to get to Brisbane.

It had been expected the Dockers would need to offload Neale to get Hogan. The Lions were understood to be offering pick No.5 in the draft for Neale.