Ben King’s move to Hawthorn is complete after Gold Coast elected not to match the Hawks’ restricted free-agency offer, with the Suns taking a first-round compensation pick currently listed at No.7, AFL House and both clubs confirmed on Friday.
AFL House confirms non-match
AFL.com.au reported Gold Coast’s all-time leading goalkicker is clear to join Hawthorn after the Suns elected not to match. AFL House posted: “Trade approved. Gold Coast Suns have elected not to match the offer for Restricted Free Agent Ben King. Ben King is now able to join Hawthorn. Gold Coast Suns will receive a Round One selection (currently #7) in the 2026 Telstra AFL Draft as compensation.”
AFL.com.au said King moves on a seven-year deal to the end of 2034 worth more than $9 million across its life span, after Hawthorn lodged the free-agency paperwork on Tuesday.
Suns thank King
The Gold Coast Suns published a farewell noting King will join Hawthorn as a restricted free agent and that the club receives a first-round selection, currently pick 7.
The Suns said King played 143 games after being taken with pick 6 in the 2018 draft, kicked a club-record 315 goals, and led the club’s goalkicking on six occasions.
“As is Ben’s right as a free agent, he has chosen to pursue other opportunities in 2027,” Gold Coast list and recruiting boss Kall Burns said.
“Ben has been a dedicated and valued contributor to our football club for the past eight years. We would like to thank him for all he has given to our football club and wish him all the best in this next stage of his career.”
Hawks on the signing
Hawthorn recruiting and list boss Mark McKenzie said on AFL.com.au: “Over a number of seasons, Ben has proven himself to be one of the AFL’s premier key forwards, consistently hitting the scoreboard as a tall target in attack with elite accuracy.”
“At 26, Ben joins the Hawks at the peak of his powers with his strong attributes further enhancing what our exciting forward line looks like in 2027 and beyond.”
AFL.com.au said King kicked 60 goals this year after a career-best 71 in 2025, and has placed in the top five of the Coleman Medal in each of the past three seasons.
Trade traffic still rolling
King’s clearance sits beside Friday’s other free-agency and trade movement, including the Western Bulldogs’ official confirmation of Zak Butters and ongoing talks linked to Aidan Schubert’s reported interest in Gold Coast. The free-agency period closed Friday; the Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period runs to Wednesday 14 October.
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