COLLINGWOOD great Steele Sidebottom has officially told Magpies teammates he will be retiring at season's end.

Debuting in 2009, Sidebottom has played 373 AFL games - the second most in Collingwood's storied history, only behind Scott Pendlebury.

A member of the Magpies' 2010 premiership side as a 19-year-old, Sidebottom then kicked a famous goal late in the 2023 Grand Final to help seal the club's next flag 13 years later.

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With Collingwood guaranteed to be in the wildcard round of the finals, at least, Sidebottom will be hoping for a fairytale farewell.

The versatile midfielder won Collingwood's Copeland Trophy in 2017 and 2018, also earning All-Australian honours once.

"As a young kid from 'Tally' (Tallygaroopna), I could never imagine I'd finish my AFL career with over 370 games, two premierships and 18 years of memories," Sidebottom said.

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"When I look back on my time at Collingwood, I'll remember the people.

"So many teammates, coaches, staff and volunteers have invested their time and energy into helping me along the way."

Sidebottom's impending departure comes as Pendlebury ponders his future, with AFL.com.au reporting this week that Essendon had enquired about a deal for the all-time games record-holder, who is also a chance to play on at the Pies, or join Sidebottom in retirement.

Steele Sidebottom after the 2023 Grand Final between Collingwood and Brisbane at the MCG, September 30, 2023. Picture: AFL Photos

AFL.com.au reported last week that another Magpies veteran, Jeremy Howe, had been offered a one-year deal to play on in 2027.

The Magpies have the oldest list in the AFL and are attempting to stay in premiership contention with a group in transition.

"On behalf of everyone at Collingwood, we want to congratulate Steele on everything he has achieved throughout his career but also to thank him for all he has given the club," coach Craig McRae said.

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"Steele's football speaks for itself. His consistency, professionalism and ability to perform under pressure have been remarkable throughout his career. But for me, his greatest strength is his character. He's authentic, caring, humble and has a wonderful way of bringing people together. That's why he's so respected by everyone at our club.

"We couldn't be more grateful for what Steele and his family have given to the Collingwood Football Club. We wish Steele, Alisha, Matilda, Ned, Beau and the entire Sidebottom family all the best for the future. Their contribution to our club has been immense and they will always be welcomed home at Collingwood."