STAR forward Tom Lynch's days in Queensland are numbered according to fans, with more expecting him to leave for Collingwood than re-sign with the Suns.

More than 48,000 supporters participated in the 2018 fan survey, conducted for AFL.com.au and the AFL Record, with 28 per cent predicting Lynch will wear black and white next season.

While only 22 per cent of fans across the League predict Lynch will stay on the Gold Coast, optimism abounds among Suns fans, with two thirds confident their co-captain won't leave.

The 25-year-old is a restricted free agent at season's end and is one of football's hottest commodities.

He booted 66 goals in 2016 and made the Virgin Australia AFL All Australian side that season.

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Adelaide's midfield jet Rory Sloane is also hot property in this year's free agency market, but a majority 57 per cent of fans expect Sloane to stay put.

St Kilda and Collingwood are the favoured destinations should Sloane fail to ink a new contract with the Crows. 

Like Suns supporters, Crows fans have faith their man will re-sign, though over a third still tip Melbourne-raised Sloane to fly the coop.

Almost half of footy fans believe it should be easier for players to move clubs, with 49 per cent in favour of allowing any player whose contract has expired to move as a free agent.

That situation would have particular implications for draftees, who currently sign two-year deals upon joining a team.

Under an expanded free agency system, they could potentially switch to another side just a couple of seasons into their careers without a trade deal being done, and without exposing themselves to another draft.

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The NAB AFL Trade Period has been criticised for dragging on, but 63 per cent of respondents said it was not too long.

Of those who wanted the trade period shortened, 68 per cent of fans effectively suggested it should go for a week - either five or seven days.

Last year's trade period spanned 11 days, or nine business days.

Typically, some trades happen early while a flurry occur on the final day, especially approaching the deadline.

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