JUST days before the 2019 National Draft, Melbourne has decided to on-trade pick No.8 to Fremantle, in exchange for three selections.

In return for the first round pick, the Demons have secured pick No.10 and 28 in this year’s draft, as well as Carlton’s future fourth round selection (which the Dockers received from the Crows).

This trade leaves the Dees with pick No.3, 10 and 28 heading into Wednesday night’s draft, pleasing General Manager of Football Operations Josh Mahoney.

“One of our aims during the Trade Period was to maximise our draft position,” he told Melbourne Media.

“That resulted in us trading out our future first round pick to gain a first round selection this year, which was pick 8.

“Today’s trade has significantly improved our third pick in the draft, from pick 97 to a second round pick which is currently 28, and importantly, we were also able to maintain our second pick in the top-10.”

After receiving pick No.8 from North Melbourne during the AFL Trade Period, Melbourne has effectively swapped pick No.26, 50 and its future first round selection for pick No.10, 28 and Carlton’s future 4^th round pick.

While this swap leaves the Dees in a strong position at the top end of the draft, it also allows them to continue their discussions with other clubs as live trading of picks remains open throughout the night.

“The addition of another future fourth round selection, which was part of the trade, does increase our flexibility around any potential trades that may occur on draft night,” Mahoney said.

The National Draft will be held across two nights again this year, kicking off on Wednesday, November 27.