Gold Coast forward Malcolm Rosas Jnr seeks trade

Jackson Clark Published September 17, 2025 at 12.15pm (AWST)

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Malcolm Rosas Jnr has played 49 AFL matches with the Suns. Image: AFL.

Gold Coast small forward Malcolm Rosas Jnr has asked to be traded, informing the Suns of his intentions earlier this week.

The 24-year-old Darwin product is weighing up strong interest from several rival clubs, with Sydney and Richmond among the leading suitors.

Richmond coach Adem Yze has made no secret of his desire to build a dynamic fleet of small forwards, which would complement the likes of Maurice Rioli Jnr, Seth Campbell and 2024 draftee Jasper Alger.

Yze's game plan emphasises speed and pressure in the forward half – attributes that suit Rosas Jnr's style perfectly.

Carlton and Melbourne are also believed to be monitoring Rosas' situation closely.

Rosas has endured a frustrating 2025 season at AFL level, restricted to just four appearances, two of which came as the substitute.

He has fallen out of favour under coach Damien Hardwick due to the slight restricting of the Suns' forward-line and the emergence of young talent like Leo Lombard, Jake Rogers and Will Graham, who have forced their way into senior contention.

Despite the limited AFL opportunities, Rosas has produced strong footy at VFL level, kicking 12 goals from 15 matches, earning six best-player nods, and showcasing his versatility with stints through the midfield.

Gold Coast forward Malcolm Rosas Jnr has requested a trade. (Image: AFL)

His best performances include a 17-disposal, four-goal effort against Richmond in Round 19 and a 25-disposal outing against Collingwood in Round 16.

The Suns confirmed during the week that Rosas would be exploring opportunities elsewhere.

"The club has been in ongoing discussions with Malcolm Rosas Jnr and his management throughout the year, and will help facilitate a trade in the coming weeks," a statement read.

A quick and elusive left-footer, Rosas has built a reputation for his defensive pressure and ability to hit the scoreboard.

He has played 49 games since joining Gold Coast at the end of 2019, when he became the first player signed from the Suns' Darwin Academy.

The Darwin Buffaloes junior enjoyed a breakout 2023 season under then-coach Stuart Dew, playing 19 matches and averaging a goal a game.

Rosas made a strong start to his 2024 campaign, kicking multiple goals in five of his first six games before his season was curtailed by injury and suspension.