Port Adelaide weighs trade options for Zak Butters

As the AFL Trade Period opens, Port Adelaide is evaluating its options regarding superstar midfielder Zak Butters. The club must decide whether to accept a compensation pick—currently estimated at pick No. 5 in the upcoming draft—or match a free agency offer from the Western Bulldogs to force a trade.

Port Adelaide list boss Jason Cripps stated the club is testing the market to determine fair value for Butters. While the Bulldogs have identified Butters as a priority, Port Adelaide has signaled it expects significant compensation. The club is also considering Richmond as a potential fallback option during negotiations.

In related movement, Hawthorn has agreed to a trade for Essendon's Zach Merrett and is working on a deal for Gold Coast's Ben King. The free agency period is scheduled to conclude this Friday.