MELBOURNE have secured young forward Will McLachlan following a trade with the Brisbane Lions in the 2026 Continental Tyers Trade Period.

The trade sees the Demons welcome the 21-year-old and a 2027 second round selection from Brisbane, with the Lions receiving selection No. 45 and Melbourne's 2027 second round pick in return.

Melbourne’s AFL List Manager, Tim Lamb said McLachlan’s state-level statistics show his genuine potential to succeed at league level.

“Will has recorded some impressive statistics in the VFL and shown great potential at AFL level,” Lamb said.

“We’re really pleased to have Will join us and look forward to seeing what he can bring to our forward line.

“At just 21 years of age, we believe he can be a real asset for our football club and we’re excited about his future with us.”

Playing for the Brisbane Lions’ VFL program for the majority of the 2026 season, McLachlan impacted the scoreboard in every game he played, including an eight-goal performance against North Melbourne.

At AFL level, McLachlan has kicked four majors across seven games, highlighting his ability to be a threat in front of goals.

McLachlan was originally selected with Pick 6 in the 2024 Mid-Season Rookie Draft and developed as a junior through Geelong U18.