Carlton have reportedly pulled out of the hunt for free agent Karl Amon, who is tipped to depart Port Adelaide for a Victorian club at season's end.
According to The Age on Wednesday, the Blues are unwilling to pay a premium that invariably comes with Amon's eligibility for unrestricted free agency.
Instead, the Blues are seeking to retain key pillars in their 22 and inject youth through the draft in November, having only used three picks in the 2020 and 2021 drafts.
Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay are also out of a contract at the Blues next year, while Tom De Koning is uncontracted beyond next season. Meanwhile, the club has also handed out contracts to Jacob Weitering, Patrick Cripps and Sam Walsh as well as recruits Mitch McGovern, Zac Williams and Jack Martin.
Amon has also been previously linked to Victorian destinations St Kilda, Melbourne and Hawthorn, amidst reports the winger could reel in $650,000 over five seasons.
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The Hawks are now considered the favourites, which is becoming increasingly likely the longer he is unsigned by Port Adelaide.
The 26 year-old would be an attractive fit for the Hawks, who will have a need for experienced players who can play in specific roles, given their focus on rebuilding the playing list through the draft in recent seasons.
Amon has played 118 games since joining the Power in 2015. His contract with the Power expires at the end of this season.
