“As good as done”: Why Cornes thinks Warner’s property purchase is a bad sign for Swans

Kane Cornes thinks that star Chad Warner’s purchase of a home in Perth is concerning for the Swans.

Nine’s Tom Morris revealed that the Sydney superstar bought the multi-million dollar, four-bedroom property in Applecross in December, following on from a story revealed by SEN WA’s Paul Hasleby that Warner was in the Perth property market earlier that month.

With Warner’s contract ending at the end of the 2025 season, Cornes thinks that the property purchase is a sign that the midfielder is headed back to his home state to play for either Fremantle or West Coast in 2026 and beyond.

He discussed the purchase and any implications it may have with Sam Edmund on SEN Breakfast, with his co-host not overly concerned about the news if he were Sydney.

Cornes: “A couple of days ago, it was revealed that Chad Warner had bought a multi-million dollar house back in Perth. Is he gone?”

Edmund: “We originally heard about this pre-Christmas, it’s located almost exactly between West Coast’s training ground and Fremantle’s, that it what I love most.

“But of course it doesn't mean he's gone. Players buy houses all the time all over the country.”

Cornes: “You don't think this is alarm bells ringing everywhere for Sydney?”

Edmund: “Just because he's bought a house there? No, I wouldn't be using that as a hint or a guide in any way, shape or form, but I’m not saying he won't go there.”

Cornes: “You think this is insignificant?”

Edmund: “Players buy houses all the time. They buy investment properties everywhere.”

Cornes: “They do not buy houses in their home state when they are one of the hottest trade targets and have yet to extend their contract … there’s been rumours circulating for the best part of 12 months that his heading there.”

Edmund: “All the other stuff you mention is fine and there is enough reason to be concerned without even getting to the house.”

Cornes: “I would think this is as good as done.”

Edmund: “Because he's bought the house?

“I think these deals get done way further out than the trade period … I think it’s unlikely he's going to buy a house in Perth if he's going to stay in Sydney for the next 15 years.”

Warner is not a free agent at the end of the 2025 season, so both the Eagles and Dockers would have to trade for the 85-gamer if he requests a trade home this off-season.