MELBOURNE have completed a trade with Fremantle which sees Eden Zanker and Lily Johnson depart the club.
The deal sees Melbourne receive pick No.9, 27 and 81 in the 2025 AFLW Draft, and Fremantle’s future second-round selection (2026) in exchange for the duo, along with pick No.35 in the 2025 AFLW Draft and Melbourne’s future fourth round selection (2026).
Zanker, who has played 85 games for the Demons, requested a move West due to personal reasons at the conclusion of the AFLW season.
The 26-year-old was selected with pick No.7 in the 2017 AFLW Draft, and made her debut in Round 5, 2018.
She departs as a premiership player, having been a member of Melbourne’s successful 2022 campaign, as the league’s leading goalkicker in 2023, and an All Australian (2023).
Johnson was recruited from Port Adelaide in 2024, and made fourteen appearances for the red and blue over two seasons.
Melbourne General Manager AFLW, Clare Pettyfor, thanked the pair for their contribution to the club.
“We understand this has not been a decision that Eden has come to lightly. She has been a key pillar of our program over the past 8 years, but we respect the decision that her and her partner Nikita have made to explore opportunities in WA.
“As one of the premier forwards in the competition, we wanted to ensure that her departure allowed us to strengthen our hand, heading into this year’s draft. We are confident that this trade puts the club in a favourable position.
“We would like to sincerely thank both Eden and Lily for all they have given to our club and wish them both the best in the next phase of their careers.
Trade summary
Melbourne send: Eden Zanker, Lily Johnson, Pick 35 in the 2025 AFLW Draft, Melbourne’s future fourth round selection (2026)
Melbourne receive: Pick 9, 27, 81 in the 2025 AFLW Draft, Fremantle’s future second round selection (2026).
