The Brisbane Lions today finalised a trade with Melbourne that will see versatile big man Stefan Martin join the Club.

Martin, who played 57 matches in five seasons with the Demons, was acquired in exchange for Picks No.53 and No.73 at next month’s AFL National Draft.

The athletic forward/ruckman enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2011, when he was widely regarded as one of the competition’s most improved players.

He averaged 17.3 disposals and 14.9 hitouts per game to finish eighth in Melbourne’s Best and Fairest award.

Martin proved particularly productive between Rounds 8 and 13, when he filled the void left by injured first-choice ruckman Mark Jamar and averaged close to 19 disposals and 26 hitouts per game.

The 25 year-old former basketball player had a quieter 2012 campaign, with injuries limiting him to just seven senior matches.

He is now set to continue his AFL career in Brisbane alongside former Melbourne teammate Brent Moloney who also signed with the Club during the off-season as a Free Agent.

Importantly, the Club has also been able to hold onto its three selections inside the first two rounds at the 2012 AFL National Draft - Picks No.8, No.24 and No.33.

Lions National Talent Manager Rob Kerr said the Club identified Martin as a versatile option capable of playing in a variety of key roles.

“Structurally, a player of Stefan’s ability is critically important as it provides us with a flexible tall who can be effective both in the ruck and around the ground,” Kerr said.

“We view Stefan as a natural support ruckman who can cover the ground really well. He presents another marking option up forward, and has also had experiencing playing down back.”

“The shifting ruck rules seem to suit players with Stefan’s athletic capabilities.”

Stefan Martin - at a glance:

Height: 198cm
Weight: 103kg
DOB: 17 November 1986
Games: 57
Goals: 23

Recruited From: Sandringham
AFL Clubs: Melbourne (2008-2012)
Draft Details: Pick No.3 at the 2008 AFL Pre-Season Draft (Melbourne)