Essendon has reportedly "renewed" its interest in Gold Coast forward Ben Ainsworth, who is exploring his options despite his contract status.

Ainsworth was long seen as a one-club player, especially after he denied rivals last year to remain at the Suns, penning a four-year extension until the end of 2028.

However, the incoming Christian Petracca, as well as the squeeze in Gold Coast's front half, has forced the former Pick 4 to ask the question of his future, and whether he's better suited at another club.

"We're comfortable for Ben to consider his options. We're also comfortable if Ben is at the club next year," Suns list lead Craig Cameron told AFL Trade Radio.

The Bombers have longed for a connecting small forward, who can push high up the ground but also has a strong goal sense.

Carlton has also vetted its interest in Ainsworth during this trade period, and was confirmed to be talking to the Suns about a potential deal.

"Yeah, they have (reached out), preliminary, through Robbie (D'Orazio) more so than through me," Cameron added.

"I expect there might be a conversation there in the next couple of days."

Damien Hardwick has Ben Long, Leo Lombard, Jake Rogers, Bailey Humphrey, Ainsworth and more than likely Petracca at his disposal.

Not to mention the midfielders who may spend time up forward.

Easing Hardwick's burden are the departures of Brayden Fiorini (Essendon), Malcolm Rosas Jr (Sydney) and Connor Budarick (Western Bulldogs).

Humphrey and Rogers have also been linked to moves, however, the latter has reaffirmed his faith, and will see out the last year of his deal at Gold Coast.

As for Humphrey, multiple Victorian clubs, including Melbourne, are keen on luring him south, and could be a piece of the puzzle to land Petracca.

The trade period deadline is set for 7:30pm (AEDT) on Wednesday.