The state of play for key targets ahead of trade period, and the players at your club without a deal…

In-demand defender Dan Houston has asked Port Adelaide to trade him to a Victorian club.

Carlton and North Melbourne lead the race for Houston, who is contracted for four more seasons, but the Power will demand a strong return for the back-to-back All-Australian.

The Blues do not want to hand over their first-round pick this year (No.11) – preferring to offer their 2025 equivalent – but may need to budge if they are to hold off the Kangaroos, who hold the No.2 selection in a strong but midfielder-heavy top-end of the draft.

Houston told reporters at Alberton after his exit meeting on Tuesday that he was willing to remain at Port if a deal could not be brokered, but he is as good as certain to be at a new club in 2025.

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“I have informed the club that my preference is to play in Victoria next year,” Houston said.

“Obviously, over the last few weeks, I have had a fluctuation of emotions, and if the deal can’t get done, I am happy to stay at Port Adelaide. I love the club – that’s all I am going to say.”

Melbourne were in pole position for Houston when news broke mid-season about him wanting to come home, but the 27-year-old had a change of heart because of the tumult at the 2021 premiers, highlighted by disgruntled Demon Christian Petracca.

Port’s asking price was two first-round picks when Melbourne’s interest in Houston arose, but that was before the Demons’ ladder slide.

Collingwood, Western Bulldogs and St Kilda have also expressed interest in Houston, who has played 168 games for the Power but missed the finals while serving a five-game bump ban.