Collingwood are understood to be interested in Essendon star Zach Merrett, reports 7 News' Mark Stevens.

There has been plenty of unrest at Bomberland following a tumultuous season, with some belief Merrett is unhappy with the current situation of the club.

Whilst showing interest in the Bombers gun, the Magpies are also looking to settle their own list for 2021, with midfielder Adam Treloar's future up in the air while forward Jordan De Goey is yet to sign an extension with Collingwood.

While Treloar is hoping to remain at the Holden Centre next year, reports have suggested the 27-year-old won't be in the black and white, with an exit potentially opening up space for a star like Merrett.

Essendon president Paul Brasher looked to deflate the rumours surrounding Merrett via the club's website, stating the midfielder had declared his interested in remaining with the Bombers.

“Last weekend I had a call from somebody telling me as an absolute fact that Zach Merrett had handed in his resignation the day before,” he said.

“Now, I was speaking to Zach, as it turned out, over the weekend, and he assured me there was no truth in that and he’s looking forward to a big 2021.”

Merrett is also understood to be on Carlton's radar as several Bombers players are believed to be unhappy with the club's direction.