BREAKING NEWS: Collingwood have finalizing a landmark deal agreement with superstar power forward Scott Pendlebury, reportedly worth $200.8 million to become their next..

— In a groundbreaking development that has sent shockwaves through the AFL community, Collingwood Football Club has reportedly finalized a record-shattering deal with veteran superstar and former captain Scott Pendlebury, worth an eye-watering $200.8 million.

Sources close to the negotiation have confirmed that Pendlebury, one of the most decorated players in the club’s history, has signed on to become Collingwood’s next Head of Football Operations in what is being described as one of the most significant post-career transitions in modern AFL history.

From Champion Player to Power Executive

After an illustrious on-field career spanning more than two decades, Pendlebury’s shift from the locker room to the executive suite marks a new era for the Magpies. The deal reportedly spans 10 years, including performance incentives and equity options, making it the largest off-field contract in AFL history.

Club President Mark Korda hailed the agreement as a “generational moment” for the club.

> “Scott Pendlebury has bled black and white his entire career. His leadership, discipline, and vision for the game are unmatched. This deal ensures that legacy continues well into the future — not just on the field, but at the very heart of our football operations,” said Korda.

A New Vision for Collingwood

Pendlebury, 38, retired earlier this year after a record-breaking 383-game career, including a Brownlow Medal, six Copeland Trophies, and a pivotal role in Collingwood’s 2010 Premiership win. Widely respected for his football IQ and composure under pressure, Pendlebury is expected to bring a strategic, modern approach to player development and recruitment.

In a brief statement, Pendlebury said:

> “Collingwood has always been home. I’m honoured to take this next step with a club that means so much to me. There’s a lot of work to do, and I’m ready to help lead this next chapter.”

Reaction Across the AFL

The deal has drawn reactions from across the league, with rival clubs reportedly stunned by the scale of the agreement. AFL CEO Andrew Dillon praised the move as a “milestone moment” for player pathways beyond retirement, noting it may set a precedent for other elite athletes transitioning into high-level administrative roles.

What’s Next for the Magpies?

With Pendlebury now officially at the helm of football operations, Collingwood is expected to undergo a structural and cultural overhaul, focusing on youth development, injury management, and long-term list strategy.

The move comes at a critical time, as the Magpies seek to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season and return to Premiership contention.