FREMANTLE’S hard-line approach to this year’s trade period has been widely criticised, but former St Kilda player Leigh Montagna has backed the club’s approach.

The Dockers have copped it from all angles after walking away from their negotiations with Melbourne over young key forward Jesse Hogan.

The Demons are keen to move Hogan on but are believed to be asking for two first-round picks, while the Dockers are unwilling to give them more than pick No.11 - their first pick at this year’s draft - and a their 2019 second-round pick.

Trade analysts are predicting pick No.5 would help get the deal done, but the Dockers would only get that pick if they decide to trade Lachie Neale to Brisbane, which they have so far been unwilling to do.

The fact Fremantle are desperate for a key forward has left many puzzled with their approach to the deal, but speaking on Fox Footy’s Trade Lowdown, Montagna said there was plenty of logic in their actions.

Hogan has one year to run on his contract with the Demons.

“They’ve got their price

point. They don’t want to give up more than pick No.11 and their second-round pick for next year,” Montagna said

“They’ve got every right to hold their ground. They don’t have to do this deal.

“Jesse Hogan, yes he’s a very very good player, but Fremantle don’t have to get him this year.

“They might be able to get him next year, go to this draft, which is meant to be one of the best drafts in a long time, get some more talent and then have another crack at Jesse Hogan next year.

“Fremantle, let’s be honest, aren’t in the premiership window this year. They can wait another 12 months and get him even cheaper if they want to.”

Montagna also hit back at those who keep bringing pick No.5 into the Hogan conversation.

“Fremantle don’t have pick five, they haven’t given away Lachie Neale yet,” he said.

“At the moment Freo’s first pick is pick No.11, so that’s all they have to offer.

“Fremantle I don’t think are desperate to get Jesse Hogan this year.

“I think they should hold their fire.”