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Telegram GroupThe 2025 AFL Trade Period just delivered one of its biggest shocks yet — St Kilda Saints have successfully landed star forward Liam Ryan after a last-minute trade backflip involving Greater Western Sydney’s Leek Aleer. What began as a routine negotiation quickly turned into a high-stakes tug-of-war that’s left fans, analysts, and even players stunned.
Here’s everything you need to know about the dramatic trade shuffle, what it means for both clubs, and how it might shape the 2025 AFL season.
🔥 The Trade Twist That Rocked the AFL
In a surprise move that nobody saw coming, Liam Ryan, previously linked to a move north, has instead joined St Kilda after late-night negotiations. Meanwhile, Leek Aleer, the athletic GWS defender known for his elite vertical leap and defensive versatility, found himself at the centre of a sudden trade U-turn.
According to insiders, talks between GWS and the Saints stalled over pick swaps and salary considerations — only for St Kilda to pull off a strategic backflip that secured Ryan while leaving Aleer’s status hanging until the final hours.
⚡ Who Is Leek Aleer and Why He Matters
Leek Aleer, originally from South Sudan and raised in Adelaide, has been one of GWS’s most promising young defenders. Standing tall at 196 cm, he combines pace, aerial dominance, and a defensive instinct that few players his age possess.
What makes Aleer special is his record-breaking vertical jump — over 75 cm — the highest ever recorded at an AFL combine. His explosive athleticism and work ethic have drawn comparisons to some of the league’s elite intercept defenders.
Though still early in his AFL journey, Aleer’s performances have made him a rising fan favourite. For GWS, losing him — even temporarily — could impact their backline depth significantly.
🏹 Liam Ryan: A Proven Game-Changer
On the other hand, Liam Ryan is no stranger to highlights. Known for his spectacular marks, speed, and finishing flair, the 28-year-old forward brings big-game experience and energy to the Saints’ attacking structure.
Ryan’s move to St Kilda marks a fresh start after an up-and-down stint with the West Coast Eagles, where injuries and team changes limited his consistency. For the Saints, this acquisition signals intent — they’re building for finals contention and adding star power to their forward mix.
🧩 Why the Trade Matters for St Kilda
This trade is more than just a player swap — it’s a strategic reshaping of St Kilda’s identity. With Ryan on board, the Saints now boast a dynamic forward combination featuring Max King, Liam Henry, and Liam Ryan, capable of blending aerial dominance with ground-level pressure.
Coach Ross Lyon has long advocated for fast, attacking football — and Ryan fits perfectly into that blueprint. His pace and game sense could help St Kilda transform from a defensive outfit to a high-scoring threat in 2025.
🧠 For GWS: A Moment to Reassess
For Greater Western Sydney, losing Aleer amid ongoing list changes raises questions about depth and long-term planning. However, the Giants’ trade flexibility suggests they may already be preparing to fill defensive gaps through the draft or upcoming mid-season acquisitions.
The move also opens salary cap space, allowing GWS to pursue emerging midfielders or extend contracts for rising stars like Tom Green and Finn Callaghan.
🔍 Trade Analysis: Winners and Losers
- 🏆 Winner: St Kilda Saints — They’ve added pace, experience, and crowd appeal in Ryan without compromising their draft position significantly.
- ⚖️ Neutral: GWS Giants — While losing Aleer hurts, they gain cap flexibility and potential early picks.
- ❌ Loser: Adelaide Crows — They reportedly missed out on Ryan after being in serious contention earlier in the week.
📈 What Fans Are Saying
Social media has exploded with reactions from both camps:
“Ryan in red, white, and black? Unreal scenes. Saints are cooking this season.” – A fan on X (Twitter)
“Aleer deserved better. GWS need to lock in their youth before another star walks.” – Giants supporter forum
Public sentiment seems to heavily favour the Saints’ bold move — but whether it pays off will depend on Ryan’s form and fitness next season.
💸 Trade Details and Contract
Liam Ryan to St Kilda: 3-year deal worth approximately $1.5 million
Leek Aleer Trade Value: Estimated around second-round pick + future pick swap
Trade Date: Finalized October 9, 2025
People Also Ask (FAQs)
What position does Liam Ryan play?
Ryan plays as a high-flying small forward, known for his spectacular marks and explosive pace.
What’s Leek Aleer’s background?
Aleer is of South Sudanese heritage, raised in Adelaide, and drafted by GWS in 2021.
How tall is Leek Aleer?
He stands 196 cm tall and is regarded as one of the most athletic defenders in the league.
Why did St Kilda target Ryan?
His experience, flair, and finishing ability align perfectly with the Saints’ need for attacking energy.
Could Aleer still return to GWS?
Yes, depending on off-season reshuffles or mid-season drafts, a comeback isn’t off the table.
🏁 Conclusion: A Trade Period That Redefines Strategies
The AFL 2025 trade window continues to deliver drama, but this deal stands out for its balance of risk and reward.
For St Kilda, it’s a power move signaling ambition.
For GWS, it’s a reminder of the volatility of young talent in modern AFL.
As preseason looms, all eyes will be on Liam Ryan’s first run-out in Saints colours — and whether Leek Aleer’s next chapter takes him back to where it all began.
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