Hawthorn Forward Aidan Schubert Seeks Trade to Gold Coast Suns
Hawthorn forward Aidan Schubert will request a trade to the Gold Coast Suns as Ben King’s move to the Hawks nears completion, AFL.com.au reported. The athletic forward, who only signed a two-year contract extension at Hawthorn in June, travelled to the Suns facility on Tuesday alongside his family and met with coach Damien Hardwick and key staff.
Schubert is set to take up a five-year deal at Gold Coast, according to AFL.com.au. The trade request marks a rapid shift for the young player, who was not originally looking for a move until the opportunity and push from the Suns emerged.
Draft Background and Arrival at the Hawks
Schubert entered the AFL system as one of the youngest players in the 2025 National Draft. Selected by Hawthorn at pick No. 23, he does not turn 19 until December. He made his senior debut for the brown and gold in Round 21 of the 2026 season, finishing his debut year with one AFL appearance.
The Gold Coast Suns first targeted Schubert in July as it became clear that Hawthorn was the destination for Ben King, AFL.com.au reported. Schubert faced stiff competition for senior spots at Hawthorn due to the imminent arrival of King, the re-commitment of Calsher Dear, and the presence of established forwards Mitch Lewis, Jack Gunston, and Mabior Chol.
Gold Coast accepts compensation pick for Ben King
The trade involving Schubert sits separate from Hawthorn’s pursuit of King, whose paperwork was lodged by the Hawks on Tuesday. Gold Coast is now considered unlikely to match Hawthorn’s offer for King, meaning the Suns are set to accept a compensation pick—likely No. 7—for his departure.
Discussions between Hawthorn and Gold Coast intensified in recent weeks as the Suns prioritized securing a player in trade talks. Those talks escalated after Hawthorn increased its offer to Calsher Dear, prompting him to sign a two-year contract extension.
When did Aidan Schubert debut and join Gold Coast?
When did Aidan Schubert make his AFL debut?
Schubert made his senior debut for Hawthorn in Round 21 of the 2026 AFL season, having been selected at pick No. 23 in the 2025 National Draft.
How long is Schubert’s proposed deal with Gold Coast?
Schubert is set to take up a five-year contract with the Gold Coast Suns after touring the club’s facility and meeting with coach Damien Hardwick.
What draft pick did Hawthorn use to select Schubert?
Hawthorn drafted Schubert with pick No. 23 in the 2025 National Draft when he was among the youngest players available in his draft class.
What is expected to happen with Ben King’s restricted free agency?
Gold Coast is unlikely to match Hawthorn’s offer for King, leaving the Suns positioned to accept a compensation selection, which is likely to be pick No. 7.
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