MABIOR Chol has become the first player to switch clubs during the AFL off-season after completing his move from Richmond to Gold Coast as an unrestricted free agent.
The 24-year-old has signed a four-year deal with the Suns in a move that is expected to net the Tigers a third-round draft pick as compensation.
In order to preserve that selection, Richmond will attempt to secure veteran defender Robbie Tarrant via a trade with North Melbourne, rather than using free agency.
Chol played 31 games in six seasons at Punt Road but was unable to break into the Richmond team for any of the club’s three premierships under Damien Hardwick.
The ruck-forward played 10 games in 2021, including an eye-catching four-goal performance in the Tigers’ win over Brisbane in round 18.
His move was confirmed by manager Ralph Carr on Friday morning soon after the free-agency window opened.
Carr posted a picture of Chol in a Suns polo shirt and wished him “good luck”.
Adelaide defender Jake Kelly’s switch to Essendon has also been confirmed.
The 26-year-old played 110 games in seven seasons with the Crows, including their losing grand final in 2017.
“In our discussions with Jake, he is very excited and motivated by the direction the club is headed,” Bombers list manager Adrian Dodoro said.
“We look forward to seeing what he can contribute to our emerging playing group in years to come.”
The free-agency period will also likely see Sydney midfielder George Hewett join Carlton under new coach Michael Voss, while delisted St Kilda on-baller Luke Dunstan is on the lookout for a new home.
(C) AAP 2021
