News now: Essendon player Jake Stringer in a Sydney Swans twist as Collingwood is ruled out of the race….Get more here…

The Sydney Swans have emerged as the leading contenders to sign Jake Stringer, despite previous speculation that Collingwood was poised to land the Essendon star. According to Sam Edmund of SEN, Collingwood is no longer pursuing Stringer’s signature.

Stringer, 30, is contracted with Essendon through 2025, but he is seeking additional security with a contract extension for 2026. While he triggered a clause during the 2024 season for a deal worth approximately $400,000 for 2025, Essendon has been hesitant to offer him an extension or upgrade the contract. Edmund suggests that the Swans may be willing to offer Stringer a more favorable contract, but any negotiations would take place after their 2024 season, as they are currently focused on their preliminary final against Port Adelaide.

Edmund noted, “Essendon’s offer for next year is higher than $400,000, but Stringer is seeking a two-year extension. At this point, Sydney seems to be the front-runner. While I’m not saying he’s definitely heading to Sydney, they appear to be leading the charge for Stringer.”

Despite frequent criticism of his defensive play, Stringer has excelled offensively, scoring 42 goals in 2024, his best season with Essendon and tying his 2016 tally with the Western Bulldogs. His best season remains his 2015 campaign when he scored 56 goals.

Stringer is reportedly looking to leave Essendon after seven seasons in pursuit of a more lucrative contract. As AFL.com.au’s Callum Twomey shared, “He’s secured a $400,000 deal for next year but is looking for a two-year deal with more money.” Stringer has also expressed that he feels he has played his last game for the Bombers.

Essendon, however, remains firm on their current offer, as reported by the *Herald Sun*. Bombers legend Matthew Lloyd has questioned whether Stringer’s inconsistency is compatible with a flag-chasing team, saying, “The Bombers need a forward, but they likely believe it’s best to move Stringer on. His best performances are great, but when he’s off, it’s glaringly bad.”