Jamarra Ugle-Hagan is a Sun for 2026, with his trade away from the Bulldogs secured on the AFL trade period's deadline day.
Ugle-Hagan, 23, had been heavily linked to Gold Coast and expected to make the move official in recent days after a complicated end to his time in Melbourne's west.
The Western Bulldogs receive pick 74 (fourth round) in this year's draft from the Suns in exchange for the former no.1 pick.
Ugle-Hagan did not feature for the Dogs at all in 2025, and remained in contract for next year, amid personal circumstances. His breaks away from the club stemmed back to last summer.
Amid scrutiny, the Bulldogs had regularly stated their priority for the key forward's welfare over football.
In a post to social media on Wednesday afternoon, Ugle-Hagan said "Though it didn't end the way I would have liked, I have nothing but gratitude and respect for the Doggies".
"My time at the Kennel has come with its share of lows - there's no denying that - but the memories and friendships I've made will stay with me for life," he continued.
"From a shy 15-year-old who moved to Melbourne, the Doggies took me in and gave me a family and a home. For that, they'll always hold a special place in my heart.
"Part of me wishes things had ended differently, but I leave proud to have worn the red, white, and blue. Thank you to all my teammates, coaches, and staff who've been part of my journey - I'm forever grateful.
"Only good things to come from here. Can't wait to get up to Goldy and do myself and my community proud."
The Suns will be hoping to revitalise Ugle-Hagan's career. He kicked a career-high 43 majors in his most recent season, 2024.
Ugle-Hagan had also been linked to Sydney and Geelong before Gold Coast firmed as his likely new home.
It's official...Jamarra Ugle-Hagan has made his move to the Gold Coast!
Welcome to the SUNS ❤️ pic.twitter.com/btkW2iLRo3
- Gold Coast Suns (@GoldCoastSUNS) October 15, 2025
He visited the club last week where he attended a medical and met with the playing leadership group, Suns list boss Craig Cameron told Trade Radio.
His move was also contingent on getting the green light from the AFL.
"Jamarra's affiliation with the Western Bulldogs Football Club has spanned more than eight years, having been a product of our NGA program before becoming the number one selection in the 2020 draft," Dogs executive general manager of men's football Sam Power said on Wednesday.
"Over the past 12 months, Jamarra has faced some complex personal challenges and adversity, with a fresh start for both player and Club seen as the best outcome for all parties.
"During this period, Jamarra's welfare and wellbeing has remained the Club's sole priority, as we collectively navigated these challenges with Jamarra.
"We wish him nothing but the best for his next chapter up on the Gold Coast."
The Dogs clarified 'no ongoing obligations' exist between themselves and Ugle-Hagan following today's trade.
Ugle-Hagan kicked 103 over 67 games from four playing seasons with the club.
According to reports, North Melbourne have knocked back a future second round pick from Collingwood for their skipper Jy Simpkin.
Deal between Crows and Brisbane is yet to be made for Callum Ah Chee, after a two-time premiership Lion requested a trade to the South Australian capital.
