Brennan wants to join Essendon
16 October 2007 Herald Sun
Mark Robinson and Mark Stevens
FLAMBOYANT Brisbane forward Jared Brennan wants to play for Essendon if he nominates for the pre-season draft.
His wish, however, appears ambitious.
The problem for both Brennan and Essendon is that the Bombers have pick No. 5, behind Richmond (No. 1), Melbourne (No. 2) and the Western Bulldogs (No. 4), who have all expressed interest in the Lion through his manager Peter Whitehead.
Carlton, too, with pick No. 2 is also in the financial position to meet Brennan's demands.
As of yesterday, it seems increasingly likely Brennan will stay at Brisbane.
The Lions put a three-year offer to the left-footer on Friday, which he is considering. "It hasn't been to agreed to at this stage," Whitehead said.
The Dons' offer, estimated to be about $1 million over three years, is better financially.
If Brennan rejects Brisbane's offer, he will put a price on his head in the pre-season in a bid to land at Windy Hill.
The Lions refused to deal him to Essendon in trade week.
Whitehead confirmed Brennan's choice would be Essendon. "Yes they are . . . at this stage," he said.
Asked about the chances of Brennan getting to Essendon in the pre-season, he said: "Strange things happen, so we'll just see what unfolds."
The Bulldogs, who also courted Brennan last week, spoke to Whitehead yesterday.
"They haven't put anything to me yet. They touched based today, said they were very keen so we'll see how it unfolds," Whitehead said.
He said Brennan would hopefully make a decision within a fortnight.
"He's keeping his options open," Whitehead said.
"At the end of the day he would like to stay with his mates in Brisbane, but he's also mindful about securing his family's future.
"He's got a young family, and if he has to move to Melbourne so be it."
The Tigers, too, are hunting an out-of-contract player with their No. 1 choice.
Asked if the Tigers had room under the salary cap for Brennan, Miller said yesterday: "We had room for Chris Judd."
Miller said Brennan would appear the most attractive pre-season draft prospect.
The Tigers are compiling a list of possible targets.
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