Carlton have reportedly informed contracted midfielder Matthew Kennedy he is one of three players free to explore his options on the open market this off-season.

Kennedy is signed to a deal at Princes Park until the end of next year, a contract that plans to take the 27-year-old through to his eighth season in navy blue and 10th overall in the AFL.

The Collingullie-Glenfield Park junior moved from GWS to Carlton at the end of 2017 after just two years and 19 games with the Giants, who the onballer was an Academy member with.

Kennedy played a career-high 24 games under coach Michael Voss this year, with four of those appearances coming either as the tactical sub or being subbed out, with more time spent in the front half.

The Blues midfielder was subbed out of Carlton's elimination final loss to Brisbane earlier this month midway through the second term as the Victorian club gave up a significant early lead, with the move visibly leaving Kennedy frustrated.

Placed in a midfield pecking order that consists of Patrick Cripps, Sam Walsh, George Hewett and Adam Cerra, Kennedy could be surplus to requirements at the Blues and has reportedly been told he can join a third club this off-season.

7 News'ย Mitch Cleary revealed on Monday night that Kennedy, as well we key defender Lewis Young and off-contract small forward Matt Owies, have been informed by Carlton that he can find a new home if a keen suitor emerges.

The Blues are hopeful of attaining wantaway Port Adelaide defender Dan Houston, however lack the needed capital to satisfy the Power in a trade deal.

The potential loss of Kennedy, Owies and Young could strengthen the Blues' draft hand and aid their bid to secure Houston, who would cost more than a first-round selection in a trade deal.

The trade period opens on Friday, October 7.