- Star’s deal with Lions finishes at season’s end
The Collingwood Magpies have reportedly joined the race to sign Lachie Neale as the embattled Brisbane Lions star’s future remains up in the air.
Neale, 32, is expected to weigh up his future at Brisbane when his deal expires at the end of the season, with his marriage breakdown tipped to play a big role in which team he plays for next.
The West Coast Eagles and Fremantle Dockers are still considered the front runners to acquire Neale’s signature should he cut ties with the Lions, after his wife Jules moved to Perth with their two children in the wake of their scandalous split.
But new reports suggest Neale isn’t limiting himself to a return to Western Australia.
The two-time premiership winner is now being chased by the Pies as the club tries to keep its premiership window open while keeping its top draft picks, according to News Corp.
If the move comes off, Neale would follow in the footsteps of fellow Brownlow Medal winner Tom Mitchell, who ended his career in black and white after starring with the Hawks and Swans.
Lachie Neale (pictured) has been linked with a move to the Collingwood Magpies as his future beyond this season remains up in the air
The Brisbane Lions gun (pictured) has been widely tipped to move away from Brisbane to be closer to wife Jules and their children after the couple’s split
The rumours have surfaced as Neale (pictured) enjoys a strong start to the 2026 season
The latest rumour comes just days after it was claimed Neale could potentially end up moving to South Australia.
Port Adelaide and the Adelaide Crows would both love Neale on their books, it has been reported.
In what may end up being a crucial factor, Neale’s parents live in Robe, South Australia, about 300km south of Adelaide.
The star’s mum and dad have been taking his daughter and son across the country to spend time with him, so a move to the City of Churches would still represent a huge cut to their travelling time.
Lions coach Chris Fagan has also stated ‘we are not going to hold anyone to ransom’ when quizzed about Neale’s future.
Given Neale’s strong form to start 2026, he won’t be short of suitors if he decides to leave the Sunshine State.
