Collingwood has reportedly put forward a four-year deal to heart-and-soul player Brayden Maynard amid heavy interest from North Melbourne.

It is understood throughout the league that Maynard would prefer to stay at the Pies, but with the Kangaroos willing to offer much more, queries over his future have begun.

However, speaking on Channel 9's Footy Furnace, Tom Morris revealed that both Sydney and Port Adelaide could ask the question of the premiership defender, but it is looking more likely he'll stay.

"He probably will (stay)," Morris said.

"He's a restricted free agent. The Pies have tabled a four-year deal. That will pale in its insignificance to what North Melbourne is trying to offer him. Or the Swans or Port will offer him if he does become available.

"(The difference) could be a couple hundred thousand a year.

"But he wants to stay at Collingwood."

Maynard had the opportunity to lead Collingwood on Saturday against Adelaide at the MCG in the absence of captain Darcy Moore.

The Pies returned to the top of the ladder with a 10-point victory over the Crows.

Maynard was one of Collingwood's best, gathering 24 disposals, four marks, four tackles, 582 metres gained and six inside 50s.

The list management team at the AIA Centre has plenty of work ahead of them with a host of players coming out of contract.

Calls on veterans Scott Pendlebury, Steele Sidebottom, Jeremy Howe, Mason Cox, Brody Mihocek, Tom Mitchell, Jamie Elliott and Will Hoskin-Elliott are yet to be made.

Premiership defender Billy Frampton continues to prove his worth and should be bound for a new deal, while Wil Parker, Oscar Steene and Illiro Smit are impressing in the VFL.

Finlay Macrae will be a watch to see if any rival clubs pursue him after struggling to claim a spot under Craig McRae, as Lachie Sullivan, who has arguably taken his role, has played five games this year.

Charlie Dean, Ash Johnson and Oleg Markov are also without deals beyond 2025.