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. 

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

As a restricted free agent, Port can match the deal and force a trade.

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. 

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