Arch rivals Collingwood have emerged as a suitor for out-of-contract Carlton defender Jack Silvagni, which will leave generations of Blues supporters furious.
It is understood that the Pies, who are in desperate need to bolster their defensive posts, have expressed interest in Silvagni, who is without a deal for 2026 and beyond, despite playing career-best football in the backline.
It comes at a critical juncture for the IKON Park club, as incoming CEO Graham Wright, who ironically came from Collingwood, weighs up the next steps out of mediocrity, which could include the future of Michael Voss as well as a host of their star players, namely Harry McKay, Sam Walsh and Charlie Curnow.
Carlton is also expected to lose restricted free agent and star ruckman Tom De Koning to St Kilda.
According to the Herald Sun, the Blues have tabled a four-year contract for Silvagni to retain the third generation of the iconic family at the club.
Silvagni's father (Stephen) and grandfather (Sergio) are both members of Carlton's team of the century.
As for Collingwood, the move would make sense as they prepare for life after veteran Jeremy Howe, albeit likely to play next year.
The Pies have been on the lookout since Nathan Murphy's retirement following the 2023 premiership triumph, and have used Billy Frampton and Charlie Dean to fill the key defensive post alongside captain Darcy Moore.
Moore recently got beaten by Fremantle's Patrick Voss (six goals) with Frampton (calf) absent, while Dean, although valiant in his efforts, wasn't able to make a meaningful impact as the Pies suffered their second consecutive loss, and fourth of the year.
Silvagni has played 128 games in nine completed seasons after he was taken with Pick 53 in the 2015 National Draft.
The 27-year-old has seemingly put his injury woes behind him, overcoming an ACL injury last year to emerge as Carlton's most improved and important player.
