Essendon have publicly announced that they will require 'compelling compensation' in any deal involving Adam Saad.
This intriguing statement comes after the out of contract defender declared his desire for a trade to Carlton.
Carlton head of football Brad Lloyd confirmed his parties interest in Saad on Tuesday night.
“We can confirm that Adam Saad has today notified us of his commitment to join the Carlton Football Club.
“Adam has officially requested a trade and we will now work with the Essendon Football Club and Adam's management to finalise the deal.
“We welcome Adam's decision and at this stage will not be providing any further comment.”
A report from sources close to The Age suggest that a five-year deal has been offered for the 26-year-old.
Should a trade between the long term rivals be agreed upon, Saad is likely to join Zac Williams, another lightening quick half back, at Princes Park.
It has been suggested that Lloyd's connection with Saad's mentor and fellow Muslim Bachar Houli may have played a part in swaying his future allegiances.
Age journalists Jake Niall, Michael Gleeson and Daniel Cherny claim that the Bombers offered Saad a four-year deal which was set to net the Coburg product in the vicinity of $600,000 a year - an increase from their previous proposal.
In a statement released by the club, Essendon list management chief Adrian Dodoro was saddened by Saad's imminent departure.
"We put forward a significant offer to Adam and we are disappointed in his decision to pursue a playing future elsewhere," Dodoro said.
"Although we wish Adam all the best, he is not a free agent and therefore a suitable trade will need to be forthcoming from Carlton. Clearly, there is an expectation of compelling compensation for a player of Adam's calibre."
Saad is unlikely to be the only star Bomber heading for the exit at Tullamarine, with free agent Joe Daniher likely to depart and ambiguity also surrounding Orazio Fantasia's future in a sash.
Unlike Daniher though, Saad is not a free agent, so a deal to the Dons liking must be struck.
Carlton currently hold pick seven in this year's draft in December. Whether this alone or a combination of future picks will seal the deal is yet to be determined.
What is known is that the Blues currently have significant salary cap space available for next season. This 'war chest' has become obtainable due to under spending in seasons past. Due to this frugalness, Carlton have the capacity to effectively exceed the salary cap in 2021.