Following a major upheaval at Channel Seven, claims have emerged that rival networks are looking at some of the biggest stars in news and current affairs.

After the surprise departure of state political reporter Sharnelle Vella at ABC Radio Melbourne, rivals “became aware” that some of the newsroom’s top talent could be up for grabs, according to the publication. Herald Sun.

While the publication doesn’t specify which stars are on the bounty hunters’ radar, it suggests there will be “more bounty hunting and poaching” in the coming week.

The claims come as part of huge changes in Seven’s newsroom, particularly after Tim Watson announced his retirement after three decades with the network.

Newsreader Rebecca Maddern is expected to be announced as the replacement for veteran Seven News sports presenter.

She will move from her current role on weekends to reading sports Monday through Friday.

Following a major shake-up at Channel Seven, claims have emerged that rival networks are looking at some of the best-known stars in news and current affairs. Pictured: 7News anchor Rebecca Maddern

Following the surprise departure of state political reporter Sharnelle Vella at ABC Radio Melbourne, rivals have “become aware” that some of the newsroom’s top talent could be up for grabs. Pictured: Channel Seven’s Melbourne headquarters

Maddern currently co-anchors 7News at 4pm on weekends alongside Mike Amor.

The proposed change would have her read sports news Monday through Friday.

New network anchor Karina Carvalho, who recently joined from ABC, is a potential candidate to take over Maddern’s weekend role.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Channel Seven for comment.

This change comes after Seven boss Kerry Stokes hosted several big-name 7News stars at his multi-million dollar Darling Point mansion.

Attendees included Spotlight star Liam Bartlett and 7News Sydney weekend presenters Michael Usher and Angie Asimus.

Watson announced on Monday night’s bulletin that his time at 7News Melbourne was coming to an end after almost three decades with Channel Seven.

Presenter Peter Mitchell kicked off the announcement by saying: “Before we go, Tim. You have some breaking news.

While it is not specified which stars are on the bounty hunters’ radar, it is suggested that there will be “more bounty hunting and poaching” in the coming week. Pictured: Mark Ferguson, 7News Sydney anchor

The claims come amid a shake-up in the Seven newsroom, with Tim Watson (pictured) recently announcing his retirement after three decades at the network.

Political reporter Sharnelle Vella (pictured) also announced her shock defection from the ABC this week

“Yeah, Mitch, I’m done in December.” I will be working almost until Christmas. I’ve been working here for almost 30 years,’ Watson replied.

“I enjoyed every moment. I love working with you, but all good things come to an end.

Watson later took to social media to expand on her brief goodbye.

“I had the best job in the world at a network that was incredibly supportive,” Watson said.

“Surrounded by dedicated and talented people who work hard every day to produce the best news reports, it’s been a privilege and a pleasure to be invited into people’s homes to deliver the sports news.”

The veteran broadcaster’s announcement follows another shake-up at the network, with Sharnelle Vella announcing her shock defection to the ABC.

This week, the network’s political reporter informed his editor-in-chief that he would be leaving the national radio station at the end of the month, giving them just a few weeks to find his replacement.

The announcement follows her prominent appearance on Seven’s flagship investigative program Spotlight in August, where she secured an exclusive interview with former CFMEU boss John Setka.

The popular reporter, who spent seven years at the network, plans to spend the coming weeks saying goodbye to her colleagues and friends before taking time off over the summer and starting her new role on ABC Radio Melbourne.

The change will see her team up with former Western Bulldogs captain Bob Murphy as part of an overhaul of the station’s breakfast show, replacing host Samuel Jonathan McMillan, aka ‘Sammy J’, who announced his departure on Wednesday.

Rebecca Maddern (pictured) is to be announced as the replacement for veteran Seven News sports presenter