Carlton key defender Jack Silvagni has quickly become one of the AFL's hottest commodities as he weighs up his future beyond 2025.
Holding the status of an unrestricted free agent, rival clubs could come hard for the Blue, given it won't cost them anything in draft capital.
It comes at a time of uncertainty at IKON Park after a poor on-field campaign that has seen Michael Voss' future in jeopardy after missing the finals.
But when blood is in the water, the sharks will circle, and that is exactly what Collingwood, Essendon, Western Bulldogs, Sydney and North Melbourne are doing.
The Pies' link to Silvagni raised eyebrows and dropped jaws as the arch-rival has offered a four-year deal to a three-generation Blue, which would irritate generations gone by.
Seemingly, it is only good business for the other quartet of clubs to throw their hat in the ring, with all experiencing defensive woes throughout 2025.
The Kangaroos are second-last in scores against and are in desperate need to bolster their backline with experience and talent.
The Bombers are 13th while the Swans are 11th, and have struggled to perfect their rearguard in a season littered with injuries to key players.
The Bulldogs, despite being one of the strongest scoring teams, have struggled to contain the opposition when they lose, especially against the top echelon of sides vying for a premiership.
Collingwood's interest comes as they are still on the hunt for a Nathan Murphy replacement, and the past month has shown Darcy Moore desperately needs assistance.
What is working in the Pies' favour, including how they got in early for their pitch to Silvagni, is the close links with Dan Houston at the club, with the pair playing junior football with each other.
Houston was lured to the AIA Centre from Port Adelaide after heavy interest from the Blues, Demons and Kangaroos, but ultimately opted for the stable guidance of Craig McRae and Collingwood, as well as reuniting with the Daicos brothers.
McRae has already met Silvagni, and is keen for a "second date".
Herald Sun journalist Jay Clark revealed that Essendon coach Brad Scott had also caught up with the 27-year-old in a bid to lure him to the Hanger.
The Bombers have been without Ben McKay, Zach Reid and Jordan Ridley for large chunks of the season, and would benefit from a heart-and-soul player like Silvagni.
It is also understood that the Bulldogs are set to schedule a meeting with the utility, according to Channel 7's Mitch Cleary, who also revealed that the Kangaroos "asked the question".
Sydney's name came to light as it was led to believe that Silvagni's management approached the 2024 grand finalists, but are more expected to strengthen their front half, trusting the likes of Tom McCartin and Nick Blakey, among others.
