Port Adelaide is reportedly furious with Carlton's conduct in early negotiations over a potential trade for two-time All-Australian defender Dan Houston, with the Power accusing the Blues of arrogance.
Houston, who is contracted at Alberton until the end of 2027, has attracted significant interest from several Victorian clubs after recently requesting a trade to his home state.
Tensions between the two clubs have escalated due to Carlton's proposal, which has been described by Port Adelaide insiders as "delusional."
The Blues have reportedly indicated that they intend to keep their prized pick 11 in this year's AFL draft, instead offering a future first-round selection through a trade with a third club. Carlton also raised the prospect of including uncontracted small forward Matt Owies in the deal.
However, Port Adelaide power brokers have baulked at the offer, deeming it far below Houston's market value. Speaking on AFL Trade Radio, reporter Sam Edmund provided insight into the Power's frustration, stating, โPort Adelaide are just flatly refusing to deal with Carlton... They are angry at what they perceive to be Carlton arrogance in the early negotiations.โ
Edmund further explained that the discussions between the clubs have been indirect, with all communications going through Houston's management. The Power have made it clear that Houston, at 27 and a two-time All-Australian, is worth far more than Carlton's current offer, especially given his three-year contract status.
Port Adelaide's displeasure has only grown as they reflect on the current trade landscape. The Power is set to lose out on targets like Isaac Cumming to cross-town rivals Adelaide and Harry Perryman to Collingwood, making the potential departure of Houston even more difficult to stomach.
Given that the Power currently lack a first-round pick in what's considered one of the strongest drafts in years, they are determined to ensure that any deal involving Houston brings substantial capital to the club.
Houston's request to return to Victoria is believed to be motivated by personal reasons, with his girlfriend based in Melbourne. While Port Adelaide acknowledges this, they view his situation differently from other recent trade cases like Alex Neal-Bullen's move to Adelaide, which was based on family reasons. Houston has also expressed his affection for the Power and his teammates, further complicating the trade process.
Despite the complications, Carlton remains Houston's preferred destination, largely due to his friendship with Blues player Jack Silvagni and his positive working relationship with Carlton coach Michael Voss, a former assistant at Port Adelaide.
Nevertheless, should Houston remain firm on his desire to move to Carlton, Port Adelaide will expect a far more substantial return.
North Melbourne is also rumoured to be preparing a major bid for Houston, with coach Alastair Clarkson reportedly playing a hands-on role in efforts to lure the defender to Arden Street. The Kangaroos are well-positioned for a trade, holding several draft picks, including pick 2 and a future first-rounder.
With multiple clubs circling, Port Adelaide remains adamant that they will not part ways with Houston unless they receive an offer that reflects his stature as one of the AFL's premier defenders. As negotiations continue, the Power will look to extract maximum value from any potential deal, while rival clubs will need to improve their offers if they hope to secure Houston's services.
