Melbourne are set to be a major factor in the AFL trade period, with the pending departures of Christian Petracca and Clayton Oliver looming large over the player exchange frenzy.

Petracca wants a move to Gold Coast and Oliver, who met with GWS players and officials last week, has been told to explore his options elsewhere.

Both high-profile midfielders still have long-term contracts with the Demons, tied to the club to 2029 and 2030 respectively, which will add layers to any deals struck.

The pair's 2021 premiership teammate Steven May is also contracted for one more season, but is another star who has been told to shop around as Melbourne move into a fresh era under new coach Steven King.

That will include the arrival of Brody Mihocek from Collingwood, while the Demons are also keen

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