For Charlie Curnow, the desire for a new third home rather than a place at Carlton realities stems. This has led to rampant speculation about a potential trade to the Sydney Swans. The key forward’s wish for a change of scenery has sparked discussions within the AFL community, particularly regarding the involvement of Sydney star Tom Papley in these negotiations.
In July of this year, speculation emerged around a potential trade, with Curnow on his way to Sydney. Papley’s connection to Curnow grew stronger due to their history in the trade rumor mill. Papley unsuccessfully attempted to move to Carlton at the end of the 2019 season. He was still under contract with Sydney and ultimately signed a massive five-year deal that extends through the end of 2028.
Even with the speculative trade, Papley’s camp has gone on record to state, repeatedly and vehemently, that they are not interested in helping Curnow get moved. Papley stated, “I don’t really want to make this about me right now, but I’m playing at Carlton next year. There you go. Done.” His commitment appears to fly in the face of discussions just a few days ago connecting him with a likely trade.
According to industry experts, there is still doubt about Curnow’s long-term prospects at Carlton. Caroline Wilson remarked, “I can’t predict exactly what is going to happen but my view is that Charlie is still eyeing an exit from the football club.” Wilson added, “I just think that Charlie Curnow has not been super happy at Carlton. He has some issues with the football club.”
Perhaps this is why Curnow’s been so ornery, with 7 seasons at the Blues not allowing him to settle and get secure for a long period. The 2025 season ended up being a brutal one for Papley, who fought through a nasty knee injury that eventually forced him to the operating room. Despite this setback, he managed to finish the season strongly, kicking seven goals and maintaining an impressive career average of nearly 1.6 goals per game prior to his injury.
Those possible trade talks between Carlton and Sydney have so far produced no deal. Neither club was able to work out a deal for Papley’s proposed trade to Carlton last year. This rift will undoubtedly make any future negotiations difficult for Curnow.
