Can huge crowds tempt Lynch?

By Paul Frederickson

Who is 199cm tall, has kicked 234 goals for an average at best team and will be a 26 year old free agent at the end of the season? That would be the talented Gold Coast forward Tom Lynch. Richmond will be a major player in the chase for the forward's signature.

Hands up if you want to wear yellow and black in 2019.

Richmond has two memorable, and not necessarily successful, huge free agent targets in recent decades in Ben Cousins and before that the unlucky Nathan Brown. It has been a long time since Richmond has aggressively chased a big name free agent at the start of a new season. Whilst Prestia, Caddy and Nankervis were exceptional recent pick ups only Prestia would match whatever have been considered a biggish name of the three when recruited.

The Gold Coast will be the front runners to secure Lynch as he will be a restricted free agent, much like Dustin Martin in 2017. That means the Gold Coast will have the final option to match whatever rival clubs offer. If he wants to stay he will remain at the Suns for 2019 and beyond.

Why would he leave for Richmond?

His is a Victorian and the lure of coming home may be a factor.

We are in a Premiership window with the third youngest list in the AFL. There will be a lot of competition for spots and success begets success.

The crowds. With the highest attendances of 2017 and already the highest membership numbers in the club's 133 year history Lynch is guaranteed to play in front of bumper, and adoring crowds.

Friendships. Already close friends with Prestia and Caddy he won't be coming to tiger land friendless.

So let's set our targets high and become the club of choice for free agents!

GO TIGES!