ST KILDA has landed Essendon midfielder Andrew Lovett in a deal that will see its first-round draft pick go to Windy Hill.

Essendon gains pick 16 in return for Lovett, who asked to be traded at the end of the season.

St Kilda coach Ross Lyon said the deal would benefit both clubs.

"We think his best footy is in front of him," Lyon told the Herald Sun.

Lovett, 26, has played 88 games and kicked 93 goals since making his debut for Essendon in 2005.

Essendon general manager of football operations Paul Hamilton acknowledged the deal on the club's website on Tuesday afternoon.

More to follow.