Gold Coast’s standout forward Ben King is set to be one of the most coveted free agents come 2026, and AFL journalist Ryan Daniels suggests that Collingwood are “extremely confident” in their pursuit of him.
As the round progresses, King has secured third place in the Coleman Medal race with 33 goals this season, establishing himself as a dependable key forward since being drafted in 2017.
In the past, he has been linked to St Kilda, where his brother Max is a current player.
The Magpies are eyeing their future roster of key forwards, especially with Mason Cox at 34, Brody Mihocek at 32, Tim Membrey at 30, and Dan McStay at 29.
Ben King of the Suns. Getty
According to Daniels, Collingwood are feeling optimistic about their chances of securing the talented Sun.
“Keep an eye on his teammate Ben King. There’s been a lot of buzz regarding interest in him from the Victorian clubs over the years,” Daniels stated on Triple M.
“I have reliable information suggesting Collingwood is exceedingly confident that by this time next year, Ben King will either be a Magpie or on the verge of becoming one.
“They see him as a crucial addition to their team, and their confidence is extremely high. Of course, circumstances can change; for instance, we once believed Kozzy Pickett would be headed to Fremantle. However, for the Pies, the outlook on securing Ben King is rather positive.”
Ex-Western Bulldogs star Nathan Brown opines that perhaps Collingwood should consider targeting a star midfielder instead, such as Gold Coast’s Matt Rowell, whose contract is up at the end of this season.
“In my view, they would benefit more from someone like Matt Rowell,” Brown commented.
“I’d be willing to offer Ben King a higher salary than Matt Rowell, but as a football club, they likely need the midfielder more.”
If King does make the move as a free agent, it could materialise after the conclusion of the 2026 season.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
Fanpage: SportArena.com.au.
LiveScore – Live Sports Results & Odds.
