St Kilda is becoming increasingly "confident" that it can lure Gold Coast midfielder Sam Flanders to the club.

Flanders is contracted at the Suns until the end of 2027, but has been shifted from the half-back position he made his own last year.

The acquisition of Daniel Rioli and John Noble has led to the 24-year-old being deployed in a variety of positions, including depth midfielder and half forward, which has resulted in a significant drop in his numbers.

The Saints are in desperate need to bolster their midfield.

"St Kilda is confident it can prise Sam Flanders out of Gold Coast as the full extent of its trade shopping list becomes clearer," SEN's Sam Edmund wrote.

"The Saints are spreading the word that they will acquire Flanders in the exchange window after making contact with Gold Coast about a trade in the middle of the year.

"The Victorian had one foot out the door before Stuart Dew was replaced by Damien Hardwick in late 2023."

Suns coach Hardwick declared that Flanders, despite interest from around the competition, was staying in the Sunshine State.

"He ain't going anywhere," Hardwick said in June.

"We're not in the business of trading our very best players, so Sam Flanders won't be going anywhere. I've got a real soft spot for Sam, he's one of my favourites."

It comes as the Saints will land Carlton ruckman Tom De Koning through free agency, while also looking to acquire Leek Aleer and Liam Ryan.

The monster re-signing of Nasiah Wanganeen-Milera to a two-year deal worth around $4 million has been credited with helping lure rival players to the club.

However, the Blues should not be discounted in the chase for Flanders' signature after registering interest.

According to Herald Sun's Jon Ralph, Carlton joined the Saints in their interest of acquiring the 24-year-old as a midfielder.

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