THE SIGNS are positive for Geelong fans wanting to see favourite son Gary Ablett back in the blue and white hoops.

When asked if a deal for Ablett would get done, Gold Coast list manager Scott Clayton said it was "more likely" than not. 

"Obviously most [deals get done]. There's some work to do, there's no doubt about that, we're not at the finishing line yet."

He said while a conversation was held between the two clubs, further talks are planned for a few days' time. 

"To think that anything will be done in the first couple of hours of day one is unrealistic," he said. 

Clayton confirmed names had been raised by the Cats as potential trades for Ablett, but refused to elaborate any further on the "confidential conversation".

As he stated at the start of day one of the NAB AFL Trade Period, the Suns are looking at all options to get a deal over the line, including working with a third club. 

"I'm big on the fact that in this trade period, it's not always a straight line from A to B, often you need to come outside and come back in.

"The story is that we're looking for net out and net in, and that will be a mix of picks, perhaps future picks, and players."

An offer has been tabled by Essendon for Suns quick Adam Saad, who is keen to return to Victoria.

"We spoke to Essendon, it was a good discussion. We'll keep moving, nothing's done yet," Clayton said. 

Clayton indicated the Suns had not yet had further discussion with Cat Steven Motlop, who is weighing up options outside of Geelong, and said the Suns would start discussions with Fremantle regarding Brandon Matera on Tuesday.