Hanley joins Suns in three-way AFL deal

Brisbane midfielder Pearce Hanley is headed to Gold Coast in a three-way AFL trade which also involves Port Adelaide.

Hanley, who has been among the Lions’ best players during his nine years at the club, joins the Suns along with pick No.67 in the draft.

In a three-way trade, the Lions get Gold Coast’s pick No.22 and Port Adelaide’s 2017 first round draft pick, while the Power receive the Lions’ priority pick (currently No.19) and the Suns’ pick No.30.

The trade is somewhat of a gamble for the Power, who risk sacrificing a high-end future pick, but it means they will take three top-30 selections into this year’s draft.

Hanley, 27, has played 129 games for the Lions and consistently polled well in the side’s best and fairest count.

The Irishman was taken as a rookie pick in 2008 and elevated to the senior list the following year.

“Our priority during the exchange period has been to add mature-aged talent that could make an immediate impact at our football club, and Pearce certainly fits that criteria,” Gold Coast football boss Marcus Ashcroft said on Tuesday.

Brisbane meanwhile announced uncontracted defender Darcy Gardiner has signed a new three-year deal.

Gardiner, 21, has played 43 games and is considered an important cog on the Lions’ young list.

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