It is becoming increasingly likely that Port Adelaide defender Dan Houston played his last game for the club in Round 23.

Houston's desire to return to Victoria after eight years at the Power first began with interest from Melbourne but has since cooled following the club's turbulent period surrounding Christian Petracca.

And now Carlton has thrown themselves into the mix, with the club needing a penetrating rebounding defender.

Speaking on Channel 9's Footy Classified, Craig Hutchison believes the Blues are the favoured destination for Houston.

"Houston wants to go there (Carlton)," Hutchinson said.

"That's the indication from Port Adelaide. He's a two-time All-Australian. He is a good kick.

"He is another investment. Like (Zac) Williams was like Jack Martin was. His resume is much better than theirs."

However, it has been known that the Power - who hold all the cards given Houston's contracted status - will only give away the All-Australian if they are satisfied with a deal.

As it currently stands, the Blues hold Pick 11 in the 2024 National Draft, which could go out the mid teens given bids on father-sons and academy prospects in November.

Carlton would likely want to secure young talent given the depth of this draft whilst also needing enough draft capital to obtain the Camporeale twins (Ben and Lucas).

That could force Carlton to use a future first-round pick to help broker a deal with Port Adelaide amid other sweetener selections.

SEE MORE: Where to for Carlton's list? Brutal calls heading toward 2025

A by-product of the trade speculation is a host of role players without deals for 2025 and beyond.

Matt Owies is arguably the biggest name without a contract despite coming third in the goal-kicking this year behind Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay.

Jack Martin and Jack Carroll have been linked with moves to West Australia while the futures of Caleb Marchbank, David Cunningham and Sam Durdin remain murky.

Matt Carroll, Domanic Akuei and Alex Mirkov have yet to debut and could be left empty handed when the club undergoes its exit meetings.