Carlton have shut down reports they are "interested" in unsigned St Kilda forward Tim Membrey, who is eligible for free agency under an unrestricted band this off-season.
Membrey remains without a home for next season despite managing 30 goals from 19 games for the Saints in 2024.
The 179-gamer is likely to be on an AFL list next year, but a likely landing spot for the 30-year-old is yet to emerge.
St Kilda could retain the former Sydney forward should he fail to find a new home before Friday's signing deadline, with Membrey now likely requiring late external interest to part ways with the Saints after 10 seasons in the red, white and black.
The Traralgon product reportedly has interest from the Blues, who weighed up a move for Membrey a year ago, according to SEN's Sam Edmund.
"They're still interested in Tim Membrey, Carlton," Edmund told Trade Radio on Monday.
"They had a go 12 months ago, but it was a bit tough with him still in contract."
However, Blues list manager Nick Austin has poured cold water on the suggestion, confirming on Monday the club won't be pursuing Membrey.
no that might be happening, we'll be prioritising the draft," Austin said.
Membrey would be a reliable third tall forward option for the Blues as they likely see big man Tom De Koning transition to a full-time ruck role in 2025, opening up a spot alongside Coleman Medal-winning pair Charlie Curnow and Harry McKay in Carlton's forward line.
The Blues are likely to have Jack Silvagni back for the start of next season following his lengthy recovery from an ACL injury sustained ahead of the club's 2024 campaign, with uncapped youngster Harry Lemmey the only other key forward listed at Princes Park.
The club's situation and draft plans have left the likes of Jack Carroll, Matthew Owies and Sam Durdin without deals for 2025 and in a state of limbo, while contracted pair Lewis Young and Matthew Kennedy have been informed they can look to the open market for better opportunities.
Carlton secured GWS veteran Nick Haynes as a free agent last week, adding the inaugural Giants defender to their backline stocks on a one-year deal.
