You are correct , a contract means nothing today if the club wants you moved on or the player wants out.For those who continually trot out the line “I don’t know why we’re hearing about Player X, he’s contracted until Y.” it’s worth keeping in mind that around 50% of trades are for contracted players.
This is why Oliver and Petracca are still trade targets to me for some clubs.- one will be moved on - Melbourne want some salary cap space to lure Reid to the club.