Carlton have won the tug-of-war for forward Jason Tutt, now his manager Nick Gieschen says it's up to the talented Canberra product to use the chance to kick start his AFL career.
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The Western Bulldogs wanted to keep Tutt, who is off contract, and were hoping he'd wait to meet whoever their new coach is before making a decision.
But the 23-year-old was impressed with the Blues and veteran coach Mick Malthouse and delisted himself from the Bulldogs, who drafted him from Canberra club Ainslie in 2009.
Tutt will now join the Blues through the pre-season draft on December 3.
Gieschen, from Elite Sports Properties, said it was now up to Tutt to establish himself in the Carlton line-up, something he struggled to do in his five seasons with the Doggies.
He played just 26 games while at the Kennel, despite beginning with a bang – Tutt's first three kicks in the AFL were all goals and he finished with four on an impressive debut.
Tutt also played crucial roles in victories over Greater Western Sydney on his old stomping ground, Manuka Oval.
But he struggled to get an extended run in the team and only managed to string six games together at a time.
Tutt is part of a mass exodus from the Bulldogs. Captain Ryan Griffen, Shaun Higgins, Brownlow Medallist Adam Cooney and Liam Jones all left the club at the end of the 2014 season.
Jones and Tutt will remain teammates,the forward moving to Carlton during the trade period.
"You can't guarantee anything, but [Tutt's] been working hard and hopefully he can play well and get his career a kick start," Gieschen said.
"He's played some good footy at times, but he's been in the system for five years and probably hasn't grabbed every opportunity that he's been given.
"So hopefully the change is the best thing for him and he can play some good footy."
Carlton hope Tutt can fill a goal-kicking void across half-forward, having lost players such as Eddie Betts and Jeff Garlett over the last year.
That's why Blues football operations general manager Andrew McKay tried to get Tutt during the trade period for a fourth-round pick, but the Bulldogs were reluctant to deal.
He has the chance to start pushing his claims for a spot in Malthouse's 22 when he joins pre-season training on November 17.
Tutt will have his sights set on April 2 when Carlton kick off the 2015 season against Richmond at the MCG.
As well as seeking more opportunity, working with three-time premiership coach Malthouse was another attraction.
"[Tutt wanted to move for] opportunity and a fresh start," Gieschen said.
"Carlton lost a few of their goal-kicking players, Eddie Betts and Jeff Garlett and Mitch Robinson up forward.
"I think they wanted some speed and some guys that could kick the footy.
"It's a good opportunity for Jason to hopefully have a good pre-season and hopefully play some good footy through the NAB Cup and get a spot for round one.
"It's up to him, but I think they'll give him every opportunity.
"He's pretty excited about [working with Malthouse], he's met Mick and Mick's been great, so fingers crossed he can go well."
