As many as 10 AFL clubs are understood to have already shown interest in departing Hawthorn coach Alastair Clarkson.

According toย The Herald Sun'sย Jon Anderson, more than half the league have put out feelers to the four-time premiership coach's availability.

While it is yet to be known if Clarkson will be in the AFL landscape next year, clubs have reportedly seen the 53-year-old as a potential acquisition as a coaching director or mentor as well as a coach.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 21: Alastair Clarkson, coach of the Hawks,
looks on during the round 14 AFL match between the Sydney Swans and the Hawthorn Hawks at the Sydney Cricket Ground on June 21, 2019 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Both Carlton and Collingwood have been heavily linked to the outgoing Hawks mastermind, with the Magpies continuing their pursuit for Nathan Buckley's successor.

The abrupt yet timely departure of Clarkson from Hawthorn at season's end has left many to believe the Magpies are a chance to land the competition's most successful coach from the 21st century.

COVID-19 related delays have seen Collingwood's talks with candidates put on hold, while also potentially giving the club time to allow Clarkson to breathe before possibly discussing his future with Magpies.

With Carlton's external review coming to an end and doubt casted over David Teague's tenure at Ikon Park, Clarkson would firm as a leading desire for the Blues.

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 08: David Teague the Interim coach of the Blues looks on during the round 12 AFL match between the Carlton Blues and the Brisbane Lions at Marvel Stadium on June 08, 2019 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

While both Carlton and Collingwood will likely move for Clarkson, they will face competition from at least eight other rivals.

Clarkson has been touted as the perfect candidate to link up with the Gold Coast Suns and bolster the hierarchy and support behind Stuart Dew.

Following Saturday's match against the Western Bulldogs, Clarkson's final game at the helm of the Hawks will take place next weekend against Richmond, with club great Sam Mitchell taking over the reigns from 2022.