🏁🖤 WELCOME TO THE MAGPIE ARMY: Clayton Oliver Joins Collingwood on Three-Year Deal!
In one of the biggest bombshells of the AFL trade period, Collingwood Football Club has officially secured the signature of Clayton Oliver, prying the superstar midfielder away from Melbourne on a three-year deal that is set to reshape the landscape of the competition.
After weeks of speculation and behind-the-scenes negotiations, the Magpies have finally landed their man — and the football world is buzzing. Oliver, widely regarded as one of the premier midfielders in the AFL, brings elite ball-winning ability, vision, and toughness to a Collingwood side already brimming with confidence and momentum following its recent premiership success.
The move marks a monumental moment not only for the Magpies but for Oliver himself, who leaves behind a decorated tenure at Melbourne, including a premiership medal, multiple All-Australian selections, and club Best and Fairest awards. Yet for all his success at the Demons, the 27-year-old felt it was time for a new chapter — and Collingwood provided the perfect stage.
“I’m beyond excited to join Collingwood,” Oliver said in his first statement as a Magpie. “The club’s culture, passion, and the way they play the game really inspired me. I can’t wait to pull on the black and white and give everything I’ve got for the fans and my new teammates.”
Collingwood coach Craig McRae was equally thrilled, describing Oliver as a “game-changer.”
> “Clayton is one of the most complete midfielders in the league. His ability to win contested ball, apply pressure, and create opportunities fits perfectly with the way we play. We believe he’ll elevate our midfield to another level,” McRae said.
The deal, reportedly worth around $2.4 million over three years, comes after weeks of tense discussions between Collingwood, Melbourne, and Oliver’s management. Sources suggest the Magpies offered not only financial security but also a long-term vision for Oliver’s role in leading the next phase of their midfield evolution — alongside stars like Nick Daicos, Jordan De Goey, and Tom Mitchell.
Collingwood supporters, known as the passionate “Magpie Army,” wasted no time flooding social media with excitement. Hashtags like #WelcomeClayton and #FlyUpMagpies began trending within minutes of the announcement, with fans hailing Oliver as the missing piece to sustain the club’s dominance.
Meanwhile, Melbourne fans expressed mixed emotions — gratitude for his years of service, but disappointment at losing a generational talent. The Demons released a short statement thanking Oliver for his contribution and wishing him success in his new chapter.
For Oliver, the move represents more than just a transfer — it’s a chance to rekindle his spark and redefine his career. After a challenging 2024 season marked by injury setbacks and off-field scrutiny, the midfielder now steps into a fresh environment hungry for sustained success.
As Collingwood gears up for another premiership charge, one thing is clear: with Clayton Oliver in black and white, the Magpies have just added another weapon to an already lethal arsenal.
The Magpie Army is roaring louder than ever — and their newest soldier is ready for battle.
