The 2025 trade period is gearing up to be one of the most explosive windows ever, and it could get even more fiery as Port Adelaide superstar Zak Butters weighs up his future.
While the three-time best and fairest has not officially asked for a trade, the 25-year-old midfield phenom reportedly sat down with Power officials to "broach the possibility of a trade home to Victoria", according to 7 News' Mitch Cleary.
However, the club's immediate response was an "emphatic no", and Butters seems set to don the black, teal and white in 2026 - the final year of his contract.
Cleary stated that Victorian clubs "hold a glimmer of hope" he will approach Port Adelaide again "more forcefully" as the Bacchus Marsh-raised prodigy considers a move back to his home state, though it's likely the Power will hold a firm stance this off-season and potentially into 2026 as well.
Butters becomes a restricted free agent at the conclusion of next season, meaning Port Adelaide can match a rival offer and force the two clubs into trade talks for his services.
Zak Butters raised the idea of a trade home, per @cleary_mitch 👀 pic.twitter.com/kyDkKp61ME
— 7AFL (@7AFL) October 5, 2025
Butters was influential in a slightly injury-disrupted season for the Power in 2025, which earned him a spot in the 2025 All-Australian squad and third consecutive John Cahill Medal. It highlights his importance to Port Adelaide and why his contract status will be leading headlines throughout 2026, should he continue his noncommittal approach.
The 2025 AFL Trade Period will start on Monday, October 6 and run until Deadline Day on Wednesday, October 15.
