In breaking news just moments ago, the Fremantle Dockers have **officially rejected a renewed trade proposal from Melbourne** for star ruck-forward **Luke Jackson**, sending a firm and final message to the Demons: **“Wait five years.”**
The high-stakes move comes after Melbourne reignited efforts to bring Jackson back to the club where he won a premiership in 2021, hoping to capitalise on recent reports that the 23-year-old was struggling with homesickness. But Fremantle leadership, including **General Manager of Football Joe Brierty**, **Senior Coach Justin Longmuir**, and **CEO Simon Garlick**, have now **shut the door completely** — at least until Jackson’s contract nears its conclusion.
**“Luke is a Fremantle player, and he will remain a Fremantle player,”** Garlick said in a stern media briefing outside Cockburn ARC just minutes ago. **“We made a long-term investment in him, and we believe in what we’re building together. Melbourne will have to wait — at least five years.”**
The Dockers’ stance leaves no ambiguity. Jackson, who is in the second year of a seven-year deal worth reportedly over \$900,000 per season, is seen as a cornerstone of Fremantle’s future alongside players like Caleb Serong, Andrew Brayshaw, and Hayden Young. The club views him as a “franchise player” and is unwilling to let him walk — regardless of emotional or personal appeals.
According to insiders, Melbourne’s renewed bid included multiple first-round picks and a senior player, a bold attempt to re-acquire the man they developed into a premiership-winning game-breaker. But Fremantle’s leadership sees more than just football talent in Jackson — they see **a long-term leader**, a future All-Australian, and the kind of generational talent you simply do not trade away.
**Justin Longmuir**, speaking after training, reinforced the club’s position:
**“Luke is committed to this group. He’s growing as a player, and as a person, and while we respect Melbourne’s interest, we’re focused on our vision. We’re not entertaining trade discussions — not this year, not next, and probably not until his contract runs its course.”**
The latest twist in the Jackson saga has sent ripples through the AFL world. Many fans had assumed the situation might reach a compromise after Jackson’s emotional response to earlier trade speculation. But this statement of intent from Fremantle now **cements their resolve** and **ends any short-term possibility of a move**.
Jackson himself has yet to comment publicly since the announcement, but sources close to the player suggest he is “disappointed but understanding” of the club’s long-term position.
For now, Jackson remains in purple — and Melbourne will be forced to wait. The message from Fremantle couldn’t be clearer:
**Luke Jackson is home. And he’s staying.**
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