FREMANTLE forward Hayden Ballantyne has requested a trade to West Coast. 

In a bombshell that will rock the Dockers, the small forward appears set on joining the club's cross-town rival with one year to run on his contract.

It is understood Ballantyne formally approached club officials two weeks ago to discuss his contract situation beyond 2017. 

It has been confirmed that the 29-year-old has since requested to move. 

Ballantyne could be the highest profile Docker to depart at the end of the year as Fremantle deals with the fallout from its three-win season. 

Fyfe to look at 'every option' on future

While the imminent departure of one of the club's most-loved players in its 22-year history appears certain, the timing of Ballantyne's request for a move is less clear. 

Lyon said on Friday that Ballantyne had not spoken to him about any potential move away from Fremantle and he did not know of any discussions with the club.

"We're back to rumour, innuendo, and speculation," Lyon said at his weekly press conference. 

"I deal in facts. So I don't have any facts on that to help you."

It has also been put to AFL.com.au by a source close to Ballantyne that the small forward made his intention to be traded known less formally more than a month ago.  

It has been strongly refuted by sources close to Fremantle that Ballantyne made his coach aware of his intention to seek a trade at any point.

Ballantyne has a close relationship with assistant coach Peter Sumich, who is widely tipped to join the Eagles after being sent on 'gardening leave' by the Dockers earlier this week. 

The development with Ballantyne comes in the same week Brownlow medallist Nat Fyfe said he would have to explore free agency options before making a decision on his future. 

The Dockers face a tricky NAB AFL Trade Period in October as they look to secure Hawthorn midfielder Bradley Hill and Greater Western Sydney forward Cam McCarthy.

Ballantyne was selected in the 2014 All-Australian team when he kicked a career-high 49 goals. He has booted 25.14 this season from 17 games.