COLLINGWOOD defender Heath Shaw has declared he wants to join Greater Western Sydney.
AFL.com.au understands the promise of a five-year deal with the expansion club was enough to lure Shaw north to the same dirt where his brother Rhyce plays with the Swans.
The 2010 premiership player, who agreed with the Magpies at the start of the Gillette AFL Trade Period to seek a new football home, had been the subject of interest from several clubs.
His decision is a coup for the fledgling Giants, who have also lured Sydney Swans ruckman Shane Mumford.
It further eases the pain of missing out on Lance Franklin.
Collingwood confirmed via Twitter on Monday night that it would now work with GWS to agree on a trade for the 27-year-old. Any deal is likely involve young midfielder Taylor Adams, who is believed to be keen on a move to the Magpies.
New Giants coach Leon Cameron said Shaw's signing would be a major boost for the expansion club.
"A number of other clubs were chasing Heath, so for him to say he wants to join the Giants is a great endorsement of the club and the direction we are taking," Cameron told gwsgiants.com.au.
"Heath is exactly the sort of player we are looking for.
"He is a quality player who has enjoyed premiership success and will provide tremendous leadership for our young playing group."
Shaw played 173 games for Collingwood in nine seasons.
