Lachie Neale ‘48 hours’ from huge life change as Lions issue major statement on AFL superstar

Lachie Neale could reportedly be a Collingwood player “as early as Friday” as the Lions confirm his exit after eight years at the club.

Neale, 33, revealed following Brisbane’s three-peat triumph over the Dockers in Saturday’s AFL Grand Final that it would be his final game for the Lions.

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It has been widely rumoured he is joining the Pies, with Nick Daicos even hinting at the possibility in the lead-up to the Grand Final.

According to AFL reporter Jon Ralph, Neale is now just two days away from putting pen to paper as Collingwood look to make an immediate move.

The Pies are in line to sign Neale on a three-year deal when free agency begins on Friday as they waste no time tying him down.

Brisbane and Collingwood both released statements on Wednesday morning as Neale leaves the Lions with three flags and two Brownlow medals.

Brisbane said: “The Brisbane Lions confirm premiership midfielder and former co-captain Lachie Neale has advised the club of his intention to exercise his rights as an unrestricted free agent.

“The club will further celebrate and recognise Neale’s contribution to the club in the coming days.

“The AFL will also confirm the suitable free agency compensation the Lions will receive during the Trade and Free Agency period.”

While Lions List Manager Dom Ambrogio said: “Lachie has been a great player for the Brisbane Lions, and we thank him for his incredible contribution over his eight seasons.

“We understand Lachie’s reasons for wishing to explore free agency and we wish him all the best for the next chapter of his career.”

And Lions chief executive Sam Graham added: “What he’s given in terms of his contribution on the field... he’s s star.”

Collingwood also confirmed Neale will be joining them for the 2027 season, adding: “Three-time Premiership player and two-time Brownlow Medallist Lachie Neale has decided to exercise his free agency rights with a move to Collingwood.

“We look forward to welcoming him to our Football Club in the forthcoming Free Agency Period.”

Neale’s move to Melbourne comes as he begins a fresh chapter with new girlfriend Emma Field.

After his high-profile split from wife Jules Neale — who has flown back to Perth — WA clubs were rumoured as potential destinations for him so he could remain close to his two children.

But now he is poised to make the switch to Melbourne as the Pies eye a Neale-Daicos link-up.

Neale gave an emotional farewell to the Lions in an interview on the MCG pitch following their dramatic seven-point victory over Fremantle on Saturday.

“It just doesn’t feel real at the moment but I’m sure it’ll sink in,” he told Channel 7.

“I’ve absolutely loved my time at this footy club. They’re an exceptional organisation from top to bottom and I can’t thank them enough for the last eight years.

“It’s been an incredible ride. The best eight years of my life. To finish it with three premierships is something as a kid I never would have dreamt of.

“I’m sure they’re going to keep competing. That’s the club they are and the people they’ve got and the players they’ve got as well.

“I love this group and I’m going to miss them very much.”

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