COLLINGWOOD star Dale Thomas is set to nominate Carlton as his preferred club, with the Blues looking to secure the restricted free agent on a four-year deal, according to reports.

 

It has been suggested Collingwood is unlikely to match Carlton's offer, paving the way for Thomas to reunite with former coach Mick Malthouse and former Magpies chief executive Greg Swann.

 

The Magpies were yet to be informed of Thomas' decision early Thursday afternoon when reports surfaced of the 26-year-old's decision.

 

The premiership player and 2011 All Australian has played 157 games for Collingwood, but he was cut down by a long-term ankle injury this season and appeared just five times at senior level.  

 

He was put through medical testing ahead of a potential move to the Blues, who are expected to lodge paperwork with the AFL when the Gillette Trade and Free Agency Period opens on Friday.

 

Collingwood would then have three days to match the Blues' offer or watch Thomas walk to their arch-rival.