Essendon has shown an interest in recruiting Gold Coast ruckman Daniel Gorringe as it looks to fill the void likely to be left by Paddy Ryder.
The Bombers are understood to be in the market for a ruckman, with Gorringe considered a possibility.
The 22-year-old is contracted with the Suns to the end of next season, but has requested a trade to Port Adelaide for more senior opportunities.
However, with Ryder also seeking a trade to the Power, the Bombers are believed to be on the lookout for another ruckman, having also been linked to Greater Western Sydney big man Jonathan Giles.
Gorringe has played 20 games in four seasons at Gold Coast, having suffered setbacks with hamstring, ankle and Achilles injuries.
The Bombers will need to trade for Gorringe, who was taken at pick No.10 in 2010.
Ryder is intent on moving to the Power, despite coach James Hird's assertion on Tuesday that the club would not budge unless a strong deal was produced.
"If a player wants to leave, then we'll look at that opportunity for them to leave but it would have to be a good deal for us, otherwise Paddy will stay an Essendon player," Hird said in a club video.
"The supporters love Paddy Ryder, I think the club has a genuine strong affection towards Paddy and we think we got some really good football out of him over the last few years so we are keen for him to stay.
"But if an opportunity comes up with another club that is good for our club, we will look at it but, otherwise, he is a required player."
Ryder is one of five possible departures for the Bombers with Elliott Kavanagh and Kyle Hardingham expressing an interest in moving on and Jason Winderlich keen on continuing his career at Richmond.
The club and Leroy Jetta have already agreed to part ways.
