Adelaide have confirmed Chris Knights is leaving the Crows for a new club through the AFL’s free agency system.

Richmond are understood to be the most likely destination for the 26-year-old forward-midfielder.

Knights played 96 AFL games for the Crows over eight years, kicking 68 goals, but managed just five senior matches this season and was not part of the club’s finals campaign.

Because Knights has been with Adelaide for eight years and is not among their top 25 per cent of highest paid players, he is an unrestricted free agent, meaning he can join any club he chooses.

Crows football manager Phil Harper said the club understood Knights’ decision.

“It has been a difficult year for Chris as he has struggled to get a regular game with our team,” Harper said.

“However, his effort to remain positive, upbeat and ready to take his next opportunity has been a credit to his character.

“The club wishes Chris all the best in his future football endeavours and beyond his football career, when he will always be welcome as a past Adelaide Football Club player.”