Melbourne has confirmed its position in allowing premiership defender Steven May to explore his options, and potentially extend his career beyond 2026.
May is contracted at the Demons for next year, but could be on the move toward a third AFL club.
Melbourne List Manager Tim Lamb said the club is more than happy to retain the left-footer, but would support any move.
"We had a really honest and mature conversation with Steven about what the future looks like," Lamb said.
"He's been a great player for our club, and is contracted for next year. So there's a strong chance he's still here. We spoke to him about the potential for him to extend his career, and if he could do that at another club, we would support that.
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"But we're also really aware and really comfortable, if that doesn't work out for Steve, that he comes back in day one, preseason and gets to work."
May has been linked with Collingwood, while the Western Bulldogs, North Melbourne, GWS and West Coast pose as potential suitors.
It comes shortly after CEO Paul Guerra released a statement regarding the future of Christian Petracca.
Guerra said that Petracca indicated he wanted a "fresh start" for the second consecutive season, and would be happy to facilitate a move, if it satisfies the club.
"No doubt many of you would have heard Christian Petracca's name mentioned in recent days," Guerra wrote.
"As a footy club, we couldn't be more excited and confident in where our AFL program is headed. We know our future success will be built on people and players who are fully committed to where we are heading.
"We met with Christian late last week, where he expressed his desire to explore a fresh start in 2026.
"Christian is contracted for a further four years and is a once-in-a-generation player. With this in mind, any decision regarding Christian's future will be made in the best interest of the Melbourne Football Club."
The trade period will open on Monday, and will run until Wednesday, October 15.
