CARLTON is unlikely to consider a move for uncontracted veteran Brendon Goddard at season's end, with the Blues set to retain their focus on recruiting players in a significantly younger age bracket.

The club has made no secret of its desire to attract players between the age of 22 and 27 in this year's trade period, with coach Brendon Bolton reiterating that message on Friday.

Goddard, who turns 34 next May, was informed earlier this week that his contract at Essendon will not be renewed beyond this season.

With the veteran defender keen to play on, it has sparked a frenzy of speculation regarding which clubs might consider the 333-gamer at the end of the year.

However, according to Bolton, Carlton's list profile – combined with the fact experienced defensive duo Kade Simpson and Dale Thomas are both set to earn contract extensions into 2019 – makes the Blues an unlikely suitor for Goddard.

"Our recruiting profile moving forward is that 22- to 27-year-old … our focus is mainly in that space," Bolton said.

"But I do want to say that, from afar – I don't know Brendon – but he's been in the game for such a long time and he's been in some big games.

"A lot of footy fans, me being a fan as well as a coach, admired the way he plays and congratulate him on his career to this point.

"I'm just saying, our focus is particularly in that 22- to 27-year-old bracket. It's just the profile we need."

Carlton has also been linked with a move for Adelaide forward Mitch McGovern.

Despite being contracted through to 2020, speculation persists that McGovern could attempt to seek a move away from the Crows at the end of the season.

However, Bolton was reluctant to speak about the prospect of trading for the 23-year-old forward, who kicked five goals against the Blues during their last meeting in round seven.

"Mitch is still a contracted player at Adelaide," Bolton said.

"I've said openly a number of times, whether it's a staff member or a player at another club, I'm a bit old school in that space and don't make comment.

"He's an outstanding player. If you look at the last time we played them, he took some incredible marks. He's a great talent, but guys that are contracted … I think it's inappropriate to get into the public space with that."