RUCKMAN Zac Smith has nominated Geelong as his preferred new home, confirming that he will seek a trade from Gold Coast.

Smith, 25, had also attracted interest from the Sydney Swans and Essendon recently, but it is understood he settled on Geelong on Wednesday.

The Swans and Essendon remain in the race for Brisbane Lions free agent Matthew Leuenberger, while the Swans have also shown significant interest in West Coast ruckman Callum Sinclair recently, possibly as part of a trade for Lewis Jetta. 

Smith is requesting a trade after falling behind Tom Nicholls as the Suns' No.1 ruckman this season.

The Cats could have their hands full brokering a trade for Smith given they will likely be trying to finalise deals for Adelaide free agent Patrick Dangerfield and Carlton swingman Lachie Henderson.

West Coast vice-captain Scott Selwood is also expected to seek to join elder brother Joel at Simonds Stadium via free agency. The Eagles said this week they would consider matching any offer from Geelong for Selwood, a move that could force the Cats into another trade.

Smith made an outstanding start to his AFL career in the Suns' inaugural AFL season, 2011, playing 20 games and finishing third in the NAB AFL Rising Star award and sixth in Gold Coast's best and fairest count.

The Queenslander's development was set back significantly when he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament in round eight, 2013, but he returned to full fitness this year, playing 22 games in the AFL and NEAFL (11 in each).

Smith was one of the Suns' original local assess selections at the end of 2010.