Port Adelaide midfielder Zak Butters could become the centre of trade talks this off-season, due to his lack of commitment to the Power beyond his current contract, which expires following the 2026 season. This has intensified speculation about the whereabouts of his playing future.
Channel 9's Sam McClure likened the situation unfolding at Alberton to the one at Carlton with Charlie Curnow, who has reportedly stated that he is open to a trade elsewhere, notably listing the Gold Coast, Sydney, and Geelong as his preferred destinations should he make a move.
However, there has been silence from Butters' camp following the conclusion of the Power's disappointing 2025 season, with McClure suggesting that Butters may privately explore his options ahead of the trade period.
"Butters is a restricted free agent at the end of next year. I know a lot of the discussion has been that Port Adelaide will shut down any talk," McClure said on Footy Classified on Monday.
"It's a little bit like the Carlton and Curnow situation, so I wouldn't personally be buying into that. I think Zak Butters would be privately exploring all different options to be traded this year.
"I would still have Hawthorn at the head of the queue. The Western Bulldogs are playing on the fact that they're geographically close to where he grew up in Bacchus Marsh. Geelong might even be in the conversation as well. I'm sure Essendon would throw their hat in the ring, given the money they have.
"It's definitely game on this year for Zak Butters."
It was reported in early August by Channel 9's Tom Morris that Hawthorn are "all in" on acquiring Butters this off-season, but the Power has told the club that he is not available.
Butters was influential in a slightly injury-disrupted season for the Power, averaging 28 disposals over 20 games and earning a spot in the 2025 All-Australian squad.
Considering his talent and importance to Port Adelaide, it's obvious that if he goes untraded this off-season, his contract status will be leading headlines throughout 2026.
