Essendon has expressed strong interest in bringing Paddy Ryder back to the Dons, as the out-of-contract ruckman weighs up his future.

Ryder not yet made a decision on his future, but has attracted significant interest from his old club, despite Essendon having signed young ruckman Sam Draper to a four-year deal.

Essendon interest: Port Adelaide ruckman Paddy Ryder. Credit:AAP

Ryder, who is 32 and has injury issues over the past couple of years, is understood to be seeking a two-year deal, with St Kilda also having shown some interest in Ryder, as the Saints look at options for a ruckman to support Rowan Marshall.

Port have offered Ryder only a one-year contract. The Power would prefer to keep the veteran ruck though Ryder has relinquished much of his rucking duties to former Eagle Scott Lycett, who joined the Power as a free agent at the end of last year and they have young follower Peter Ladhams, too.