Port Adelaide fuming at perceived Carlton arrogance in early Dan Houston trade negotiations

Port Adelaide is refusing to deal with Carlton over Dan Houston, with the Power angry at what they perceive to be Blues arrogance in early negotiations.

In talks between the clubs fed through Houston’s management, Carlton has stated it intends to keep its pick 11 for this year’s draft while trading a future first round selection to a third club.

The Blues then want to send that third club’s first rounder to the Power, with uncontracted goal-sneak Matt Owies also raised in Houston trade discussions.

But Port powerbrokers say that is delusional when it comes to a 27-year-old two-time All-Australian who is contracted for three more years.

It’s understood Melbourne was happy to trade to first round picks to secure Houston before the Demons were engulfed in their latest crisis.

Yet the interest in Houston remains strong among rival clubs. Sources said North Melbourne was set to launch a major bid to bring Houston to Arden Street, with Alastair Clarkson playing a typically hands-on role.

Ultimately, Port Adelaide is highly unlikely to sanction Houston’s release for anything other than a strong return given it doesn’t own a first-round pick in one of the best drafts in years.

The fact Port have missed lost out to Adelaide for Isaac Cumming and are set to lose to Collingwood for Harry Perryman also complicates matters.

This isn’t viewed as an Alex Neale-Bullen situation given Houston’s motivation for moving to a Melbourne-based club is largely motivated by a Melbourne-based girlfriend. He has also stated his love for Port Adelaide and his teammates.

But if Houston is steadfast on getting to Carlton given his friendship with Jack Silvagni and working relationship with Michael Voss, there is a lot of work to do.