It is impossible for Carlton to replace Charlie Curnow in 2026 if he leaves.
Carlton coach Michael Voss and key forward Charlie Curnow when the Blues knocked off the Swans in the 2023 finals.Credit: Getty Images
That’s not good news for Michael Voss as he heads into the final year of his contract, with Tom De Koning and Jack Silvagni also out the door and Elijah Hollands on the trade table.
But that does not mean the Blues should not entertain a trade – which they are clearly open to doing – if those interested in putting the dual Coleman medallist on their books can deliver a strong offer worthy of one of the competition’s stars.
The right trade right now could deliver Carlton the boost they need to spread their talent, and, the way their total player payment (TPP) dollars are spent, to become a serious contender again in future seasons if they can stabilise in 2026.
Sam Walsh, Harry McKay, Brodie Kemp and Matt Cottrell will be more available, the almost unseen Jagga Smith will be fit, and more games will go into a bunch of talented young players exposed more often after the Blues’ shocking loss to Port Adelaide in round 16.
Voss knows the deal. He hasn’t used the phrase “Carlton first” by accident this post-season.
He is determined to show the way in putting the club’s overall needs ahead of his personal needs.
But he needs at least one excellent, already developed player to make up for the gaps left by the exits.
