Nathan Brown has told the Western Bulldogs he wants to be traded to another AFL club.

Brown told coach Peter Rohde of his decision this weekend and negotiations will begin on Monday to hammer out swap deals with a gaggle of clubs queuing for Brown's services.

"He told the coach that he wants to continue his playing career elsewhere," a Bulldogs spokesman told AAP.

Club president David Smorgon said the club had become increasingly pessimistic about retaining Brown during drawn-out negotiations since the completion of the home and away season.

Richmond is a leading contender to recruit Brown, having aggressively courted him over the past fortnight.

The Tigers have the No.6 pick in the upcoming national draft to use in trade, but in what is likely to be a broad dummy auction for Brown, may have to offer an experienced player in addition to that selection.

Collingwood has also been linked with the midfielder/forward.

The Magpies are also likely to chase hard for ex-Port Adelaide star Nick Stevens and would be unlikely to offer up enough of their grand final side to get both.

Hawthorn, despite its salary-cap squeeze, is the third club most closely linked with Brown, particularly if Hawks forward Jade Rawlings accepts a big offer from Geelong.

Carlton also has the No.2 pick in the draft and room to move under the salary cap.

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