Collingwood's stance on defender Dan Houston's future has softened to the point the club would consider a trade, if one eventuated in the next period.
Houston's future at the Pies has been speculated in the back half of the year, with the dual All-Australian potentially looking for a fresh start after two seasons in the black and white.
Football boss Justin Leppitsch was quizzed on the prospects of the former Port Adelaide player.
"I think there's a maturity within the whole industry now that knows that guys, if they want to have a fresh start and the deal's right, no matter who they are," Leppitsch said.
"We've got that very similar case of Harry Dematia at another end, you know, is looking for a fresh start. I think clubs have to look at it. So, but again, nothing's coming us to the end, and nor the other way. This has really been driven by an external source."
Leppitsch shared a similar view on Jordan De Goey, who is contracted for next year but could seek a deal elsewhere, if it were to set up his life beyond football.
"Jordy's goals are to make sure he gets that last contract, whether it be at the Collingwood Football Club or somewhere else," he said.
"If it doesn't happen now, we'll play on next year, and he may or may not. He's agreed with us. We go through interesting times. We have Tasmania coming up next year. We don't think anything will happen (this trade period)."
The Pies footy boss also opened up on the difficulties in successfully trading for Richmond defender Jayden Short, who has a desire to join Leppitsch and Craig McRae.
Short is locked away at Punt Road, so a deal, which is not close to being secured between the two powerhouse clubs, is needed.
"Jayden's going to be probably a little tougher, but we love Shorty. I've coached him at Richmond, and so did our coach. So really, a close connection with him. But you know, that's only one part of the puzzle," he added.
"Just with list spots and money and off-field things as well, and what Richmond might desire out of that deal. So when you pull those things together, it makes it a little tougher. But it doesn't mean it doesn't happen. There's still a long way to go.
"We've had an early indication from Richmond of what they would like, and it's still a bit far off from us. So there's a lot of water to go under the bridge to that one."
