AS SOON as word came through of a potential exit from Greater Western Sydney, Lachie Whitfield had eyes for Carlton.

A star of the competition and a two-time All Australian, the now-former Giant had a few people he could lean on when making his decision, with some very close mates already calling IKON Park home.

There was Nic Newman, who he grew up two houses down from in Mt Martha growing up. There was also Nick Haynes, a long-time teammate of Whitfield’s at GWS who remain extremely close - and were even playing golf at the time that rumours started to swirl about a Whitfield trade.

Those two strong links were complemented by Whitfield being given the hard sell on Brownlow Medal night, with Patrick Cripps, Sam Walsh and Ollie Florent all seeking out the highly respected Whitfield about why the Blues would be the right fit in 2027 and beyond.

Speaking from his new home of IKON Park on Wednesday, Whitfield said the wheels had already been in motion when it came to becoming a Blue.

“It’s hard to put into words at the moment,” Whitfield told Carlton Media.

“There were a handful of factors that weighed into it. It’s the biggest club in the land in my opinion. I’ve also got a couple of mates already here, which can make life a little easier in the transition. There’s also the way the team played last year, the way they bounced back and got on a roll into finals.

“I really liked the way the team set up, and the young players they’ve got are really good. I thought it was a no brainer in the end.”

Whitfield arrives at the Blues with 278 games of experience - the second-most in the history of the Giants. He is also a two-time Kevin Sheedy Medallist, and added a second All-Australian blazer to his collection just two seasons ago after his initial selection in 2018.

In welcoming Whitfield, Carlton has got itself a player who not only makes an instant impact, but will play a key mentoring role in developing the younger talent which was so impressive in 2026.

Having played 18 finals himself to this point in his career, the prospect of playing in front of capacity Carlton crowds regularly was a big part of the allure when it came to joining the Blues.

“With CD, ‘Wrighty’ and Josh, it was more of a conversation than a pitch. I walked out of that conversation knowing that Carlton was going to be the team for me if I could get away from the Giants,” he said.

“I’ve played in some finals with some big crowds, so I’ve experienced it - but probably not as regular as the rest of the boys here. I’m sure when the moment comes, I’ll try to take it all in… that’s the reason I moved here, to play for a big club in the big games.

“The way Josh has taken over and implemented a fast, free-flowing game plan, it’s really what enticed me to come here. It’s not only great to be part of and play in, but I’m sure it’s great to watch as well as for the fans.

“I walked out of that conversation knowing that Carlton was going to be the team for me.”