Zak Butters nominates Western Bulldogs as preferred AFL club

Port Adelaide midfielder Zak Butters has nominated the Western Bulldogs as his preferred destination for 2027, a move expected to significantly impact the upcoming AFL trade period. The decision follows months of speculation regarding his future, with the Bulldogs reportedly offering a nine-year deal valued between $1.8 million and $2 million per season, which could be one of the largest in league history.

As a restricted free agent, Port Adelaide maintains the option to match the offer to retain Butters or force a trade. If the club chooses not to match, they are expected to receive pick No. 5 in the national draft. The Bulldogs' pursuit of the three-time All-Australian was bolstered by his personal connection to the club as a lifelong fan.

In separate AFL news, the Fremantle Dockers secured their first preliminary final since 2015 following a 14-point victory over the Geelong Cats. The win was driven by key performances from Luke Jackson and Shai Bolton. Fremantle now prepares to face a depleted Sydney Swans side, which is currently managing multiple player suspensions and injuries.