Port Adelaide vice-captain Zak Butters had said he understands the speculation on his contract but will wait to see how the Power’s coaching change goes.
The star midfielder is contracted to the Power until the end of 2026 but has yet to sign on for the South Australian club, with a trade back to Victoria at the end of next year a rising possibility.
Butters was selected at pick 12 in the 2018 draft by Port and has played 123 games for the club, where he has won two best and fairests and been named All-Australian twice.
He grew up in Victoria, supporting the Western Bulldogs as a kid, one of the clubs reported to be interested in him if he chooses to come back at the end of next year.
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Port Adelaide will change its coach with assistant coach Josh Carr taking over the head coaching reins from Ken Hinkley next season.
Butters spoke to SEN SA Breakfast, where he explained that one part of waiting to sign a contract was to see how smooth the coaching change is.
“When you know change is coming, you want to see how it goes and pans out,” he explained.
“It’s a bit too early to dive into deep conversations while Kenny is at the helm. I haven’t had too many conversations yet, but I’m always talking to Carr.”
Butters stated that winning at Port is his primary focus and that he will speak to his manager when the time is right.
“My manager is in Melbourne, I don’t see him a whole lot, and I don’t love a phone call with anyone to be honest, even mum,” he said.
“I let him do his job, he checks in at the right time and knows I’m in the footy season and have a job to do. We have a good relationship. Footy is the most important thing for me.”
Port Adelaide is currently two games outside of the eight and will face Carlton at Adelaide Oval on Thursday night.