The dominos are falling early after Jarrad Waite and Heritier Lumumba took big steps towards finding new football homes on Monday.

With Lumumba declaring Melbourne is his preferred club, and North Melbourne in the box seat to secure Waite, other deals are becoming clearer.

As the NAB AFL Trade Period approaches, the Kangaroos, Carlton and St Kilda all look likely to be heavily involved. 

Hawks lead chase for Giant O'Rourke

Young GWS midfielder Jono O'Rourke, who was drafted with pick No.2 in 2012, has requested a trade home to Victoria, according to the Herald Sun.

The Hawks are reportedly leading the chase to secure the 20-year-old, who has spent two years in Sydney and played nine games. 

The Age reports that North Melbourne and St Kilda are also in the race to secure the skilful midfielder, who told the Giants last Thursday he wished to be traded.

O'Rourke, who is out of contract, would command a first-round draft pick in any trade given his high rating at the draft two seasons ago.

Market cool on Blue boys

Jeff Garlett has attracted limited interest since he was put on the trade table by Carlton, but there may finally be suitors for Mitch Robinson.

The Age reports that the Brisbane Lions could be keen on Robinson, who has also attracted a level of interest from some other clubs.

Robinson, 25, was dumped by the Blues in early September, one month after he lied about being in an early morning brawl that also involved Garlett.

Eagles or Dockers chasing Malceski?

While Gold Coast appears to be making the running for Sydney Swans premiership defender Nick Malceski, there are other clubs still in the race.

The Age reports one WA-based club and one Victorian club are jockeying for the unrestricted free agent's services.

Malceski has been linked to Melbourne as he tests the market after coming out of contract.

The Sydney Swans have put an offer to the rebounding defender, but The Age reports he will meet with the Suns to discuss a potential move.