Geelong coach Chris Scott says the club is always interested in securing talented players, but he refuses to confirm whether he has contacted Essendon midfielder Zach Merrett about a potential trade. Multiple outlets report Scott’s response to a trading report that suggested discussions may be underway between Geelong and Essendon regarding Merrett. Scott does not confirm the existence of any contact or negotiations, describing the matter in terms of “private and confidential” conversations. While he indicates the Cats generally monitor opportunities to recruit “great players,” he stops short of addressing specifics related to Merrett. The reports agree that Scott’s comments are aimed at neither confirming nor denying the alleged trade activity, leaving the status of any talks unclear. No source provides additional details such as terms, offers, or timelines, beyond Scott’s refusal to comment on whether contact has occurred.