Brisbane Lions List Manager Peter Schwab says the Club’s initial focus will be directed to finding a key defender ahead of Monday’s NAB AFL Trade Period.

“We’ll certainly look for key defenders – that part of the ground given the retirements of Daniel Merrett and Justin Clarke,” Schwab said.

31-year-old Merrett retired in August while the retirement of Clarke was forced due to lingering concussion symptoms in March.

Out-of-contract Collingwood defender Jack Frost yesterday nominated the Lions as his chosen home, but it remains unclear whether a deal will be done.

The athletic 195cm backman, who has played 54 games for the Magpies since coming off the rookie list, fell out of favour this season and didn't play senior football after round 12.

Schwab said the Lions recruiting team will look to bolster their midfield stocks, but that would likely involve selecting players in November’s National Draft rather than trading in established players.

“The midfield might be bolstered by the type of player that’s available in the draft.”

The Club currently hold picks 2, 20, 28, 47, 56, 74 and 92, and is waiting on news of whether the Lions will receive a priority pick - which could be decided as early as next week.

“Steve Conole and his team are really across the (draft) more than myself,” Schwab said.

“But the names of Hugh McClugage (North Ballarat Rebels – midfielder), Andy McGrath (Sandringham Dragons – half back), Will Brodie (Murray Bushrangers - midfielder), Sam Petrevski-Seton (Claremont – midfielder/half forward), Ben Ainsworth’s (Gippsland Power – small forward) and Jack Bowes up in Queensland who is in the Gold Coast SUNS Academy, they’re some of the names that will bob up pretty early.

“I think the top 5-6 are a bit better than the next group of 14 but there is depth in the draft for sure.”