Hawthorn have made an offer for Essendon captain Zach Merrett, a day out from the end of the AFL trade period.

The Bombers quickly turned down the proposal, ensuring Merrett's future will remain a major story until the Wednesday 7.30pm deadline.

Sydney were also pitching a deal on Tuesday as their bid to recruit Carlton star Charlie Curnow gathered momentum.

And Essendon recruited Gold Coast winger Brayden Fiorini for a third-round pick in next year's draft.

Hawthorn's offer came on Tuesday, with a 7pm deadline that passed without any action from the Bombers.

The Hawks' No.9 draft pick in the draft this year was central to their Merrett offer and they are now set to negotiate with other clubs over the pick.

Earlier, Bombers greats Tim Watson and Matthew Lloyd had spoken of their grow

See Full Page