Why Clarkson is leading North’s push to woo this rival defender

Alastair Clarkson is leading North Melbourne’s efforts to woo contracted – but out-of-favour – Adelaide defender Nick Murray, who has two years left on his current deal.

Finding a solution in the key posts down back is viewed as one of the final pieces in the improving Kangaroos’ list build. They have zeroed in on Murray, whose Crows teammate Jordon Butts is tipped to exercise his free-agency rights to sign with the Western Bulldogs.

Essendon’s injury-riddled defender Jordan Ridley , who has played only 26 times across the past three seasons, is also on North’s radar, and there is a scenario where they pursue both him and Murray.

Ridley is contracted until the end of the 2029 season, but explored a move to the Brisbane Lions last year and wants a fresh start to see if a rival club can solve his injury woes.

A third Adelaide tall defender who was attracting interest, James Borlase, re-signed for three years on Monday, while they have also prioritised Josh Worrell, Mark Keane and Max Michalanney.

Clarkson, who typically takes an active role in recruitment, has spoken with Murray, two sources familiar with the situation and granted anonymity to speak more freely on a player movement matter told this masthead.

Murray played the first seven games of the year for the Crows’ senior side, but only four of the next 14, including playing back-to-back matches only once since.

The 25-year-old’s younger brother, Toby, is also at Adelaide, while another sibling, Sam, played at Sydney and Collingwood.

Murray extended for three more seasons in December 2024 until the end of 2028, which complicates his situation, but there is a strong chance he will request a trade. However, his contract status – even though he has been a fringe team member this year – means a club may need to part with a decent draft pick to get him.

The Roos have already signed Charlie Comben to a six-year extension until 2033 and developing defender Wil Dawson for two more seasons as they map out what their backline might look like in the years ahead.

Cam Zurhaar has also made a successful switch from the forward line to a defensive interceptor this season.

Aidan Corr is 32 years old and does not have a deal beyond the 2026 campaign, while fellow veteran Griffin Logue’s contract expires next year and Luke McDonald inked a one-year contract this month.

Smaller defenders Riley Hardeman and Cooper Harvey are also out of contract at season’s end. Hardeman has had a two-year offer in front of him for months, but negotiations are set to ramp up this week.

It is not the first time Zane Duursma’s name has swirled in trade circles.