Zach Merrett will leave Essendon after a trade with Hawthorn was finalised on Monday afternoon, the first day of the Continental Tyres AFL Trade Period.

The Bombers will receive picks No.15 and 25 in this year's National Draft, as well as Hawthorn's 2028 second-round pick, in exchange for the former captain.

Essendon General Manager of List and Recruiting Matt Rosa said the deal gives the club the best chance to add young talent at the draft.

"Zach and his management made it clear in recent weeks that he wanted to play for Hawthorn. He's a contracted player, but we were open to talking with Hawthorn about a trade," Rosa said.

"It's a hard decision given what Zach means to Essendon, but at this stage of our build, we believe the best result for the club is to bring in high draft picks in a draft that we really rate so we can add more top-end talent to the club. This is important before a compromised draft with the introduction of Tasmania next year.

"Getting the deal done early gives us the rest of the trade period, and the weeks leading into November's draft, to work on our picks.

“Zach played to an incredibly high level this season. His leadership and guidance was valuable for our young players like Durham, Robey and Sharp through the midfield this year. 

“We now hold two first-round and two second-round selections this year, we have the flexibility ahead of an exciting draft for our club.

"Zach leaves as one of the best players this club has had. We thank him for the way he handled this process and wish him, his partner Alexandra, their son Jude and the Merrett family all the best for the next stage of his career,” Rosa said.