It’s that time of year again – when the rumour mill goes into overdrive and there’s speculation clubs are trading everything including the kitchen sink!

While Carlton expects to be active over the trade period once again, there is plenty of speculation swirling through the media already about what the Blues might do.

Here’s a wrap up of what’s being said:

The untouchables: Who your club just won’t trade
AFL.com.au, Howard Kotton, 16 September

Patrick Cripps: The powerful midfielder is the future face of the club and potential leader. In only his second season at the elite level he carried a heavy workload this year. Runner-up in the NAB AFL Rising Star award, he is destined to play a huge role in new coach Brendon Bolton’s plans.

Sam Docherty: Before succumbing to season-ending hip surgery, Docherty was one of the Blues' most consistent players, particularly in the first half of 2015. The rebounding defender is reliable, plays with passion and never gives up trying, often willing to sacrifice his game to help his teammates.

Marc Murphy: The skipper is likely to win his second John Nicholls Medal on Thursday night, a just reward for a fine season in trying circumstances. As the Blues rebuild with younger players coming into the playing group, his footy smarts and experience will be invaluable resources for Bolton to draw on.

Other likely untouchables: Bryce Gibbs

Collingwood out of the race for Kreuzer
The Age, Caroline Wilson, 15 September

The Magpies have withdrawn the reported $2.4 million deal put forward to the Carlton ruckman, a contract offer that had the Blues lining up for a generous compensation pick that could have become pivotal in the Magpies' Adam Treloar agreement. Kreuzer now seems almost certain to stay with the Blues.

Carlton, Saints confirm interest in departing Bomber Jake Carlisle
Jake Niall, Emma Quayle and Larissa Nicholson, 8 September

Carlton and St Kilda have confirmed their interest in Essendon key defender Jake Carlisle, who has walked out of the club.

The Blues and St Kilda are among the clubs interested in Carlisle, who told the Bombers on Tuesday that he wanted a trade to another club.

The 23-year-old has not yet formally nominated his club of choice or informed the Bombers of preferred destinations, but Carlisle's manager Anthony McConville confirmed on Tuesday afternoon he would leaving the club.

What will Collingwood and Carlton have to give up for Adam Treloar and James Aish?
Herald Sun, Jon Anderson and Jon Ralph, 8 August

ADAM Treloar and James Aish are two star midfielders likely to arrive at a club near you.

GWS’s Treloar is believed to be on his way to Collingwood, rounding out a star-studded new-look midfield, and Aish is believed to favour a move to Carlton, despite strong offers from Adelaide.