MELBOURNE has opened its AFL Women’s Sign and Trade Period with a three-way trade involving Richmond and Collingwood.

Agreeing to terms on Tuesday, the deal sees the Demons receive picks No.5 and No.11 in the Victorian Draft, while parting ways with pick No.6, defender Harriet Cordner and forward Aliesha Newman.

Cordner, who was contracted to Melbourne for the 2021 season, will depart for Richmond, and Newman will join the Pies.

AFLW list manager Todd Patterson said the outcome compliments the Demons’ overall trade and draft strategy ahead of the 2021 season.

“Moving up in the first round of any AFLW Draft in Victoria is notoriously difficult,” Patterson told Melbourne Media.

“Whilst we have moved up just one spot, it gives us a greater look at the top end talent, and a prospect we’re excited for.

“Pick 11 also improves our draft position significantly, and with the quality of the pool, we’re confident this will return us a great player.”

Patterson also acknowledged the two departing Demons, who have been big contributors for the club since the inaugural year of the competition.

Newman, who signed as a free agent as a soccer player, leaves after four seasons and 25 games in the red and blue.

“Aliesha has been a great servant of the club,” Patterson said.

“Not only has she contributed on field, but she has become a highly respected Indigenous leader within the AFLW space, and has had a big impact on educating our group further on her culture.

“Aliesha has been offered a greater opportunity at Collingwood and we wish her well.”

Cordner also moves on with 25 games to her name, having sought a trade to the Tigers.

The 28-year-old, who joined the Demons from a non-football background, was first signed as a category B rookie, before being delisted and re-signed as a free agent in 2017.

“Despite being contracted, Harriet felt she wanted to play a greater role than the one which we required from her,” Patterson said.

“As such, she sought a trade to Richmond, who is in a position to provide that opportunity.

“Harriet’s development as a player throughout her time at Melbourne was great to see, and we wish her the best in her next chapter.”

The Demons have been busy since the opening of the Sign and Trade Period, with plans to continue their approach over the next week.

“Overall, we’re pleased with the outcome of this trade,” Patterson said.

“This is a step towards achieving our overall goal for this period, and we will continue to work with other clubs to improve our position further.”