<h2>Oscar Allen seeks AFL Free Agency Move - Quick Hands Summary:</h2> <p>-West Coast Eagles co-captain Oscar Allen has informed the club he wants to join the Brisbane Lions as a restricted free agent</p> <p>-The Eagles retain matching rights on any offer and could receive Pick 2 compensation if Allen departs</p> <p>-Allen's contract negotiations with the West Coast have broken down, leaving his future uncertain until free agency opens in October</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>West Coast Eagles co-captain Oscar Allen has officially confirmed his desire to join the Brisbane Lions as a restricted free agent this off-season.&nbsp;</p> <p>He will become the second sitting AFL captain to leave the club after Chris Judd moved back to Victoria to sign with Carlton in 2007.&nbsp;</p> <h2>&nbsp;</h2> <h2>Eagles Captain Explores Free Agency Options</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>The 26-year-old forward met with Eagles coach Andrew McQualter, Head of Football John Worsfold, and his management on Friday to discuss his intentions. According to Nine's Tom Morris, Allen has settled on the Brisbane Lions as his preferred destination.</p> <p>Head of Management and Recruiting Matt Clarke confirmed the meeting was "respectful and engaging" but acknowledged Allen's decision and status as a free agent to explore opportunities elsewhere.</p> <p>The Eagles maintain their position as a club that values Allen's contribution while respecting the free agency process.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Restricted Free Agent Status Creates a Complex Situation</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Allen’s restricted free agent status presents several possible scenarios for his future.<br /> Unlike unrestricted free agents, the Eagles retain the right to match any offer made to Allen by rival clubs. If they choose not to match, West Coast would receive AFL compensation—potentially as high as Pick 2 in the 2025 National Draft.</p> <p>Such compensation would be particularly valuable for the Eagles, who finished 18th with just one win in their first season under new coach Andrew McQualter.</p> <p>The AFL determines compensation for clubs that lose players via free agency. The size of the compensation depends on factors such as the length and value of the player's new contract. All of these factors are assessed before the AFL assigns a compensation band.</p> <p>The current state of the Eagles will also be taken into account when the AFL announces its decision. Securing the top two picks in the national draft could significantly accelerate West Coast’s rebuilding efforts.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Contract Breakdown Sparks Uncertainty</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Allen's relationship with West Coast has deteriorated following failed contract negotiations. The star forward revealed talks had "broken down" earlier this week, creating the pathway for his free agency exploration.</p> <p>His 2024 season ended prematurely with knee surgery in June, compounding existing calf and Achilles tendon injuries. These fitness concerns may influence both his market value and the Eagles' willingness to retain his services.</p> <p>Brisbane Lions have emerged as frontrunners for Allen's signature, alongside interest from Hawthorn. The forward previously met with Hawks coach Sam Mitchell, requiring a public apology for the unauthorised discussion.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h2>Timeline and Market Dynamics</h2> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Free agency officially opens when Allen's contract expires in October, providing six weeks for negotiations between all parties. During this period, multiple scenarios remain possible, including a last-minute retention by West Coast.</p> <p>Brisbane's recruitment strategy extends beyond Allen, with Essendon ruckman Sam Draper also reportedly targeted. Meanwhile, Hawthorn continues pursuing Melbourne's Christian Petracca and maintains interest in West Coast young gun Harley Reid.</p> <p>Coach McQualter described Allen as a "required player" when questioned about the situation, indicating West Coast's preference to retain their co-captain despite the challenging circumstances.</p> <p>The resolution of Allen's future will significantly impact both clubs' 2025 preparations, with Brisbane seeking experienced leadership and West Coast potentially gaining valuable draft capital for their rebuild.</p>