'Poorly treated': 'Sad' situation that may see Jack Silvagni depart Carlton for Collingwood
The shock move of this year's free agency could see third-generation Carlton player Jack Silvagni defect to arch rivals Collingwood.
Both teams have reportedly offered the versatile 27-year-old four-year deals, with Magpies coach Craig McRae confirming he has met with Silvagni.
Veteran AFL journalist Caroline Wilson has unpacked the developing situation, saying a rift has grown between Silvagni and Carlton.
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Jack Silvagni of the Blues. via Getty Images
Jack is the son of Carlton legend Stephen Silvagni and grandson of another Carlton great in Sergio Silvagni.
He has had his best season of footy to date, settling down as a key defender and thriving in the role, outside of the injuries that have once again derailed a season for him.
Wilson sees this situation as the latest chapter in the rivalry between Carlton and Collingwood.
"The father (Stephen Silvagni) is currently feuding with the club. He won't even go to functions," Wilson told 3AW.
"There's a view from the Silvagni camp that he has been really poorly treated at Carlton and disrespected and dropped at times, and been asked to play a number of positions.
"It's taken a while for them to settle on him as what he should've been all along, which is a great defender.
"I just think it would be a bit sad. Particularly to go to Collingwood.
"You've got Graham Wright (Carlton) and Craig Kelly (Collingwood), the two CEOs who were great mates who no longer speak.
Jack Silvagni and his family after his 100th game. Carlton Football Club
"Justin Leppitsch, who is the list manager (at Collingwood), he's feuding with Graham Wright as well. They didn't get on at the end at Collingwood.
"So the acrimony is enormous, and my understanding is Carlton is trying now, but maybe it is too late, but they're pulling out all stops to keep him."
Silvagni currently sits on Carlton's injury list with "groin soreness" with no return date listed.
Reports suggest the Western Bulldogs are also interested in him and plan to meet with him in the coming weeks.
