Louth's Ciarán Byrne (right) is on trial with Carlton.

While Carlton football club has admitted that Ciarán Kilkenny is firmly on their recruitment radar, Louth underage star Ciarán Byrne could be on the club’s books before the Dublin dual star even makes his way down under.

Byrne has arrived in Melbourne for a trial with the Blues and could be in line for a two-year international rookie contract if he impresses during his stint in Australia.

It’s believed the St Mochta’s clubman’s progress has been monitored since he caught the eye of Blues recruiters at an open trial at the University of Limerick last year.

Dublin star Kilkenny also impressed at the same camp.

If Byrne does sign on the dotted line for the Blues, he would join Irish star Zach Tuohy who has become a regular in Carlton’s starting line up.

The Blues have a strong history in engaging Irish talent.

While Setanta Ó hAilpín (now signed to GWS) is their most famous coup, the have also had his younger brother Aisake and Michael Shields.

The club has also previously offered a contract to their fellow county man Ciaran Sheehan but he opted not to take them up on their offer following a brief stint at the club.

Elesewhere, Caolan Mooney has failed to retain his place in Collingwood’s senior side for their blockbuster clash with the Blues at the MCG.

Despite making an impact as a sub last week, he’s been demoted to the emergency list.

He’s in good company with Martin Clarke also listed in the emergency player role.

The Down man played VFL last week after Mooney took his place and was upgraded to the senior side for his debut.

Despite Clarke being named in the feeder side’s best performers and kicking two goals he’s been overlooked for selection.

The team announcement means there will be three Irishmen playing reserves for the Pies as the Down duo join Paul Cribbin.

The former Kildare underage star also made his claim for a senior debut as he too was named among the Pies’ VFL best last weekend.