Port Adelaide has denied entering a three-club trade with Collingwood and Gold Coast that looked all but certain to be ticked off by the trio of clubs.
The deal would see Dan Houston join the Pies, Jack Lukosius, Joe Richards, and Rory Atkins move to Alberton, while John Noble's wish of heading to the Suns would be granted.
Along with the quartet of players moving, a host of picks in this year and next year's draft would also be swapped.
PORT ADELAIDE RECEIVE: Jack Lukosius, Joe Richards, Rory Atkins, Pick 13, 29 and 36
COLLINGWOOD RECEIVE: Dan Houston, Pick 58
GOLD COAST RECEIVE: John Noble, Pick 39, future first-round pick (tied to Port Adelaide), future first-round pick (tied to Collingwood)
However, it is understood that the powers at Port Adelaide weren't keen on the deal, with SEN's Sam Edmund "hearing it was the board that knocked this back".
North Melbourne will now come back into the fore following the halt in discussions that is expected to resume on Tuesday.
Houston's landing spot has been a talking point for months, with multiple Victorian clubs listed as potential candidates albeit losing out to Collingwood, the Kangaroos and Carlton, with the latter seemingly keen to get higher in the order.
The Blues are in talks with West Coast of swapping Picks 12, 14 and Matt Owies for Pick 3, whilst Richmond's Liam Baker is also expected to be involved.
The Power have been adamant of getting a first-round selection in next month's draft, whilst also bringing in established talent.
Houston's contract - which ends at the cessation of the 2027 season - becomes a sticking point, with the Alberton club holding the whip hand in negotiations.
It is understood that Port Adelaide are happy to hold the two-time All-Australian to his contract.