TRADE and contract discussions will continue behind the scenes at Fremantle but the Dockers cannot let it impact their performance, forward Michael Walters says.

Persistent speculation about the future of several players has already begun swirling around the club as a dismal season nears its end.

The build-up to Sunday's game against Adelaide was overshadowed by revelations that small forward Hayden Ballantyne had requested a trade to West Coast.

Chris Mayne, Matt de Boer, Zac Clarke and Clancee Pearce are set to become free agents while the future of a number of others remains unclear as the Dockers appear set to make significant list changes. 

Brownlow medallist Nat Fyfe also said last week he would assess all his options before committing his future to Fremantle beyond 2017, when his current contract expires. 

Walters was the Dockers' lone star in Sunday's 72-point loss to Adelaide at Domain Stadium kicking a career-best five goals.

He told AFL.com.au that he was not concerned by the speculation that a number of his teammates might be leaving the club, so long as they committed to the Dockers' cause over the remaining weeks of the season.

"At the end of the day it's their decision," Walters said.

"It's up to them to assess all options but don't try and make it rub off on the team.

"I think Ballas and even Mayney, Mayney is a free agent as well, you couldn't fault their attitude in games. 

"Mayney, you wouldn't even think he's a free agent. He's just working his backside off to make sure that he keeps playing his role for the Fremantle Dockers."

Walters is close to Ballantyne and said he would not try and influence his friend's thinking on whether he stays or leaves.  

"We had a coffee when (the story) broke," Walters said.

"It's up to 'Ballas' and his management group and the club.

"At the end of the day, we know that Ballas is happy here. We love having him around. But at the end of the day it's up to his management group, the Freo footy club and Ballas."

Walters said it was important that the group remained tight-knit over the last couple of weeks and continued to try and improve. 

"It's been a tough year," Walters said.

"We just need to make sure we stick together and make sure our camaraderie is strong."

The Dockers travel to Sydney on Saturday to take on Greater Western Sydney at Spotless Stadium. Veteran Matthew Pavlich will be rested ahead of his farewell game in round 23. Ruckman Aaron Sandilands is in doubt after suffering a gluteal strain in Sunday's game against the Crows.