Steven May Told to Explore Trade Options Amid Demons Shake-Up
Big news has dropped in the AFL world, and it’s centered on Melbourne’s veteran defender Steven May. The Demons have reportedly asked the 33-year-old premiership star to explore trade options, despite the fact he still has a year left on his contract. This move is seen as the first real sign that change is coming under new coach Steven King, who was only introduced earlier this week.
Now, to put it into context—May has been one of the pillars of Melbourne’s backline since joining from the Gold Coast Suns, where he was once co-captain. Across his career, he’s racked up over 250 games, including being a key part of Melbourne’s drought-breaking 2021 premiership. In his early years at the club, the Demons had one of the stingiest defenses in the competition, with May and fellow backman Jake Lever both earning All-Australian honors. But as we know, football moves quickly, and the Demons are starting to eye the future.
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It’s been suggested that Melbourne want to give more opportunities to younger defenders like Daniel Turner, Jed Adams, and Blake Howes. They could also consider shifting Harry Petty back into defense, a role he thrived in during that 2021 grand final. That kind of reshuffle leaves May in an awkward spot. While the club has said he’ll be welcomed back if no suitable trade partner emerges, the indication is clear: Melbourne are ready to move forward with a younger core.
Of course, May’s time at Melbourne hasn’t been without its controversies. This season, he was handed a three-match ban after a bump that concussed Carlton’s Francis Evans. He also had a heated on-field clash with captain Max Gawn after a narrow loss to Collingwood, which saw some very visible frustration spill out. And going back to 2022, many will remember the infamous night out that ended with teammate Jake Melksham punching May over his behavior, which led to suspensions and injuries. So, while his talent and leadership can’t be questioned, it’s fair to say he’s had a bumpy ride at times.
Meanwhile, the Demons’ pursuit of St Kilda’s Marcus Windhager has ended, with the young midfielder committing to a four-year extension at the Saints. Both Melbourne and North Melbourne were circling, but once St Kilda put more years on the table, his decision to stay became inevitable. That deal is seen as a big win for the Saints, who’ve also managed to lock in Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera and attract other talent in recent weeks.
So, what does all this mean? For Melbourne, it looks like the start of a transition phase. Steven King has made it clear he wants to keep his superstar midfielders Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver, but the decision around May shows no one is completely safe when it comes to reshaping the list. For May himself, the coming weeks will be crucial—whether another club takes him on for his experience, or whether he stays put for one final season at the Demons. Either way, it feels like we’re watching the end of a significant chapter in Melbourne’s story.
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