Port Adelaide coach Josh Carr has acknowledged Zak Butters' free agency decision is likely to go against the Alberton club.

Butters is tipped to depart the Power, and now with the 2026 campaign finished and exit meetings awaiting, his decision on which side he wants to join is set to be revealed.

"We'll get a better idea this week. We've obviously got all the exit (meetings) this week from Monday to Wednesday," Carr said.

"It'll be pretty clear from there, I would've thought. You never know what could happen (but) history will tell you if you get into this position now you're up against it.

"But at the same time, I always have a little bit of hope there."

Butters - who has been sidelined with a high-grade syndesmosis injury - is being pursued by Geelong, Richmond, Collingwood and the Western Bulldogs.

The nature of the gun midfielder's free agency status - restricted - means Port Adelaide can force a trade, if they match a bid from any of the four Victorian clubs.

Butters is yet to convey a decision to the club, according to his coach.

"I am a realist, and we all are," Carr said.

"You get to this position, and nothing's happened; we'll get through the next few days and get some real clarity around it.

"Whatever the answer is, we know which way that's leaning; we make the most of it."

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