Collingwood coach Craig McRae has confirmed that the Magpies are eager to keep hold of defender Dan Houston despite reports circling that he is considering a trade this off-season.
Houston just finished the second season of his six-year contract that he signed for Collingwood after departing Port Adelaide at the end of 2024.
However, the 29-year-old has not played to the same level as he had been during his time at the Power where he was a two-time All-Australian.
Speaking on Fox Footy's AFL 360 on Monday night, McRae said that Houston is a popular and wanted figure at the club.
"I hope and think (Houston will be at Collingwood in 2027)," McRae said.
"He has another couple of years to run on his contract at least. I know externally he is well judged, but internally he is well loved."
Houston requested a trade to Collingwood at the end of 2024 to come home to Melbourne.
But his lowered performance has led to whispers that perhaps he could leave his contract early. St Kilda is reported to be waiting in the wings with interest if that's the case.
Houston has played 213 games since being picked up in the 2014 rookie draft.
The dashing defender has played 45 matches across his two seasons at the Pies and averaged 21 disposals in 2026.
