Zak Butters has officially played his last game for the club.

The three-time best and fairest on Monday told Port Adelaide 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.

Since his announcement, AFL.com.au's Cal Twomey has reported that the Magpies have been ruled out, leaving three clubs in the running for his signature.

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

Speaking on Monday afternoon, Butters said: "I've made the decision to head home, it obviously been one I have wrestled with for a while.

"It’s been tough to get to the bottom of it. It’s not a decision I have taken lightly. It’s been tough.

"I feel like although I’ve loved my time in Adelaide and everything the city and football club has given to me, I feel like I’m at a stage of my life I would like to get back around family and friends and enjoy more time with them.

"Adelaide has felt like home as well.

"So many special memories I will take with me and hold on to forever. My teammates have been awesome, there have been some great role models, and I’ll be forever indebted to the club. I will always be a Port Adelaide person.

"Supporters have always got around me from day one of being drafted. I always wanted to repay them and I have a great relationship with the members over the years.

"Next steps – a bit to play through with my manager and family. I’ll look to get it sorted in the next little bit.

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.