It's official - finally a deal has been completed during AFL trade week with Port Adelaide youngster Adam Thomson joining Richmond in exchange for the Tigers' third-round pick in November's national draft.
The Tigers gave up pick 42 to secure Thomson, a 22-year-old inside midfielder who struggled to get a regular game at Alberton playing just 28 games in four seasons including just seven in 2008.
However the Tigers believe there is plenty of upside to Thomson, who left Port to seek greater opportunities at senior level elsewhere.
"We are impressed with what we have seen of Adam and believe his skills and attributes will be a good fit at Richmond," Richmond football operations manager Craig Cameron said of Thomson on Thursday.
Thomson is an inside midfielder who is good with his hands and the Tigers believe he will blossom if given more opportunities at senior level.
"It is worth noting that Adam has averaged 14.7 disposals this year despite only 60 per cent game time," Cameron said.
Richmond coach Terry Wallace said Thomson would help the Tigers in an area where they are already strong - winning the ball - given the Tigers ranked second in the AFL for contested possessions in 2008.
"Adam clearly fits the age criteria that we are developing and he will be a strong addition to our midfield," Wallace said.
"I believe Richmond supporters will enjoy watching Adam play as he is a tough player who wins his own ball," he said.
Thomson was originally selected at pick 11 in the 2004 national draft by Port from SANFL club Sturt and made his debut in Round 11, 2005.
Port football operations manager Peter Rohde said the trade was fair to both parties.
"Adam made it clear to us that he intended to take the opportunity to play at another club next year so we consider a third-round pick as fair compensation," he said.
"In what is considered a critical draft for all 16 clubs, and one deep in talent, we are confident we will be able to use the third round selection at the draft to bring another quality young player to the Power."
The trade means that Port now has selections four, 22, 38, 42 and 54 at the November 29 national draft - the last uncompromised draft before the introduction of new teams Gold Coast and West Sydney.