Hawthorn star Tom Barrass insists prospective recruit Zach Merrett is “well within his rights” to agitate for an AFL trade despite his status as a contracted Essendon player.

The Bombers have been adamant they won’t trade their captain and six-time best-and-fairest winner Merrett, who has two years left on his existing deal.

But that hasn’t stopped the Hawks, led by coach Sam Mitchell, making a strong play for the 30-year-old midfield ball-magnet ahead of Wednesday’s trade deadline.

Merrett is one of an increasing number of high-profile players trying to switch clubs while in contract, with the bold move becoming more commonplace in recent times.

It has angered and frustrated clubs who believe players have too much power in the market.

Former West Coast defender Barrass was under cont

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