Welcome to the Magpie Army: Clayton Oliver Joins Collingwood on Three-Year Deal
The AFL world is buzzing as Collingwood Football Club has pulled off one of the biggest moves of the trade period — officially securing the signature of Melbourne star midfielder Clayton Oliver on a three-year contract.
In a deal that has sent shockwaves across the league, Oliver’s move to the black and white marks a defining moment for both the player and the reigning powerhouse. After weeks of speculation, the announcement was made official on Saturday morning, confirming that the 26-year-old will don the famous Collingwood guernsey in 2026.
Oliver, a four-time All-Australian and 2021 premiership hero, is widely regarded as one of the AFL’s elite midfielders. Known for his contested ball-winning ability, explosive bursts from stoppages, and relentless work rate, he is set to add even more strength to Collingwood’s already dominant midfield lineup alongside Nick Daicos, Jordan De Goey, and Jack Crisp.
Speaking at the official unveiling at the AIA Centre, Oliver expressed excitement about the next chapter of his career.
> “It’s an incredible feeling to be joining Collingwood,” Oliver said. “The Magpies have built something really special — a strong culture, a united group, and a passionate fanbase. I can’t wait to get started and give everything I have for this club.”
The move follows weeks of behind-the-scenes negotiations between Collingwood and Melbourne, with the Magpies’ recruiting team working tirelessly to finalize the deal. Sources suggest Collingwood offered a strong trade package including draft picks and future assets, reflecting Oliver’s high value and reputation as one of the competition’s top-tier players.
Collingwood football boss Graham Wright hailed the signing as a “massive statement of intent” from the club.
> “Clayton is a proven match-winner and one of the hardest-working midfielders in the league,” Wright said. “He brings leadership, toughness, and an elite football brain. We’re thrilled to have him in black and white, and we know our supporters will welcome him with open arms.”
Head coach Craig McRae also expressed his enthusiasm, calling Oliver “a perfect fit” for Collingwood’s fast-paced, attacking brand of football.
> “Clayton plays the game the way we love — with heart, skill, and determination,” McRae said. “He’s going to complement our midfield beautifully and make us even harder to beat.”
The news has sparked jubilation among Collingwood fans, with social media exploding in celebration. Many hailed Oliver’s arrival as the “missing piece” in the club’s pursuit of back-to-back premierships, while others praised the front office for pulling off one of the trade period’s biggest coups.
For Oliver, the move also represents a fresh start. After an injury-hit 2024 campaign and a challenging season off the field, the midfielder said he’s ready to rediscover his best football in a new environment.
> “I’ve learned a lot over the past year,” he said. “I’m grateful for my time at Melbourne — the memories, the friendships, and the success we shared. But now, I’m hungry for a new challenge, and Collingwood feels like the perfect place for that.”
As the Magpies prepare for the 2026 season, the addition of Clayton Oliver is already being hailed as a masterstroke. His combination of toughness, creativity, and composure under pressure could be the X-factor that pushes Collingwood to even greater heights.
With the ink now dry, the Magpie Army can officially celebrate — their midfield just became even more unstoppable.
Clayton Oliver is a Magpie. The dynasty continues. 🖤🤍
