GOLD COAST, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 05: Zak Butters of Port Adelaide celebrates kicking a goal during the round 16 AFL match between the North Melbourne Kangaroos and the Port Adelaide Power at Metricon Stadium on September 05, 2020 in Gold Coast, Australia. (Photo by Matt Roberts/AFL Photos/via Getty Images)

Zak Butters has turned down an approach from North Melbourne who are keen on acquiring the talented youngster in the Jason Horne-Francis trade, reports Mitch Cleary.

"We can tell you that North Melbourne has officially asked for Zak Butters, but it won't be happening," Cleary said on 7News Melbourne.

"That call came in last night or early this morning for Zak Butters to request a move to North Melbourne; he's knocked that straight on the head.

"He won't be moving. Two years to go on his contract at Alberton."

Butters has spent four seasons at the Power after being selected with the 12th pick in the 2018 National Draft.

The 22-year-old would add strong value to a trade deal for Horne-Francis, for whom the Kangaroos are expecting more than two first-rounders.

In his second AFL season, Butters earnt a spot in the All Australian squad of 40 and has since consolidated himself as one of the Power's most important players.

The midfielder-forward averaged 22.2 disposals and kicked 10 goals in a solid 2022 season.