In a bold move that has sent shockwaves through the AFL community, Collingwood Football Club’s head coach Craig McRae has announced the signing of promising young midfielder Liam Hartley from the Gold Coast Suns.
The signing was confirmed earlier this morning during a press conference at the Holden Centre, with McRae calling Hartley “a dynamic and game-changing addition” to the Magpies’ 2026 campaign.
“We’ve been following Liam closely for the past 18 months,” McRae said. “His ball use, endurance, and work rate are exactly what we’re looking for as we look to evolve our midfield mix heading into next season.”
At just 22 years old, Hartley has already shown flashes of brilliance in his short AFL career, averaging 22 disposals and five clearances per game in 2025. His breakout season with the Suns caught the attention of several top clubs, but it was Collingwood’s vision and culture that ultimately drew him to Victoria.
“It’s a dream come true,” Hartley said after the announcement. “To play for a club with such history, in front of the biggest crowds in the game — I can’t wait to get started and give everything I’ve got.”
The deal is reportedly a three-year contract, with Collingwood parting ways with their second-round draft pick and fringe defender Jack Madgen as part of the trade.
A Statement of Intent
This move signals Collingwood’s clear intent to remain in premiership contention. After a strong showing in the 2025 season that ended in a narrow semi-final loss, McRae and the recruitment team have wasted no time addressing the areas in need of reinforcement.
Hartley is expected to slot into the midfield rotation alongside stars like Nick Daicos, Jordan De Goey, and Tom Mitchell, offering the Magpies another weapon at stoppages and on transition.
AFL analysts have praised the trade, with former Collingwood great Nathan Buckley calling it “a shrewd bit of business that could pay big dividends come finals time.”
What’s Next?
With the trade period still open, fans are speculating that this could be just the beginning of a busy off-season for the Magpies. McRae remained tight-lipped on any further signings but hinted that “we’re always looking to improve the list.”
For now, the Magpie Army can celebrate the arrival of one of the league’s most exciting young talents — and dream big about what lies ahead in 2026.
