Hawthorn is on track to land another key signing in the NAB AFL Trade Period after Greater Western Sydney midfielder Jono O'Rourke nominated the Hawks as his preferred destination.
O'Rourke, who is seeking a trade home to Victoria, had also been in discussions with St Kilda but the Saints were told on Tuesday that the 20-year-old would seek a trade to the Hawks.
"While very impressed with the club and its future prospects, after a few days of deliberation he has opted to pursue another option," St Kilda list manager Ameet Bains told the club's website.
The Giants and Hawthorn will now need to negotiate a fair deal to release the midfielder, who was recruited with pick No.2 in the 2012 NAB AFL Draft.
Hawthorn holds picks No.19 and No.39 in the 2014 draft.
Through a lack of opportunity and injury, O'Rourke only managed nine senior games with the Giants, eight of those in 2014.
His body let him down in his debut season last year with the midfielder missing games with a broken jaw, and shoulder and hamstring injuries.
O'Rourke was recruited as an inside midfielder who could win a stack of the ball. Recruiters also liked his efficient ball-use, speed and endurance.
He was named in the All Australian team following the U18 championships in 2012.
O'Rourke was recruited as an inside midfielder who could win a stack of the ball. Recruiters also liked his efficient ball-use, speed and endurance.
He was named in the All Australian team following the U18 championships in 2012.
