Zak Butters has officially played his last game for Port Adelaide.

It’s understood the three-time best and fairest on Monday told the Power he intends to depart as a free agent. 

Geelong and the Western Bulldogs are considered the frontrunners for his services, with Richmond and Collingwood also having made big-money plays for him. 

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Butters did not inform Port Adelaide of his preferred club, with more meetings likely in coming weeks.

“I’ve made the decision to head home. It’s one that I’ve wrestled with for a while now and it’s been quite tough to get to the bottom of it,” Butters said in a club video.

“It’s a tough decision, one that I haven’t taken lightly.

“I feel like although I’ve loved my time in Adelaide and everything the city and club has given to me, I’m probably at the time of my life where I’d like to get back around my family and friends and cherish more time with them.”

Butters indicated he had still yet to decide on a new club, saying he would work through it with his manager and family.

As a restricted free agent, Port can match whatever deal he signs and force a trade.

Zak Butters has told Port Adelaide he is leaving. Credit: Getty

While the Tigers have the best draft hand, they are further away from a flag than the other three clubs in the mix. 

The Cats and Dogs would need to get creative to bring picks in to satisfy Port, or risk Butters walking to the pre-season draft.

It’s believed one of Butters’ key consideration points is how to best leave Port with respect and dignity, and part of that is making sure the trade is as efficient as possible. 

“So many special memories,” Butters said of his time at Port Adelaide.

“I’ll be forever in debt to the club for drafting a skinny kid from Darley with no shoulders.”

Butters played 156 games for Port Adelaide and was twice named in the All-Australian team.

“Port Adelaide have been informed by Zak Butters and his management that he intends to excercise his rights as a restricted free agent and explore a return home to Victoria,” the club said in a statement.

“Zak has been an outstanding servant to the football club since debuting in 2019. He is a three-time John Cahill medallist and dual All Australian and we thank him for everything he has given to Port Adelaide.

“The club will now work to facilitate the best outcome for Port Adelaide through this process.”