As talks between Essendon and Port Adelaide over Paddy Ryder stall, Port has taken advice on how Ryder can activate a contractual rule that would void his Essendon contract.

While Essendon and Port have been in negotiations over Ryder, the Power contacted the AFL Players Association this week for advice on how it could have Ryder's contract voided – making Ryder a delisted free agent.

To this point, the Power has offered Essendon pick No. 17, and while it had also undertaken to offer the Dons a player, the parties have been unable to come to terms and Port has had difficulty in persuading players to leave.

Sources said Port was exploring all avenues to get the deal done. The Ryder camp wants the 26-year-old to be traded and has viewed the legal options – which, if exercised, would see Essendon receive no return – as a last resort in the event that a trade fails.

Essendon remains strong in its determination to keep Ryder until it is happy with the terms of a trade, despite the potential legal threat. The action would be taken by Ryder, however, not Port.