Ben Hunt has admitted there is a romantic lure to potentially returning to Brisbane, believing it would be "special" to go back to the Broncos and finally win a premiership.
Uncontracted and on the lookout for a new home, Hunt broke his silence on last week's St George Illawarra exit from inside the Australian Test camp on Sunday.
The halfback admitted frustration at the timing of his Dragons split while with the Kangaroos, but felt a weight off his shoulders after 18 months of discontent.
The 34-year-old also said he was yet to speak with any clubs, and would not seriously begin considering his future until after the Pacific Cup final on Sunday.
But the halfback does already have a number of priorities, including his desire to go to a club where he believes he can win his first premiership.
And he has indicated there is a lure to return to the Broncos, who he left at the end of 2017 after his heartbreak of the 2015 golden-point grand-final loss to North Queensland.
"Brisbane will always have a soft spot for me," Hunt said when asked about a potential return.
"I have been involved in the club since I was 12. They put a lot of work into me, and if I had the opportunity to go finish there it would be pretty special.
"But I've got to see if that can all work."
The possibility of Hunt returning to Brisbane would likely be contingent on Ezra Mam's situation, as the five-eighth awaits the secondary results of his roadside drug test and possible charges.
Mam could potentially face the no-fault stand-down policy, after allegedly returning a positive initial sample to drugs after being involved in a head-on collision while driving unlicensed last month.
If Mam is stood down by the NRL until the matter is finalised, Brisbane would be able to apply for salary-cap dispensation for a like-for-like player in their squad.
And it is there where Hunt would fit the bill for new coach Michael Maguire, before potentially shifting to hooker later down the line.
"It would be awesome to have him back at the club. It's exciting," Broncos vice-captain Pat Carrigan said.
"The best thing for Benny will be the best thing for Benny. But a Broncos jersey would be nice.
"Benny is a leader, with his stature in the game, playing the representative footy he has.
"He's still doing it week in week out and can do it in a number of positions, which is important for any club."
Hunt could also solve Brisbane's other issue, with CEO Dave Donaghy openly admitting the team needs better leadership.
The Dolphins have also indicated their interest in Hunt, while the Sydney Roosters are expected to be among several other clubs keen on his signature.
Hunt said it was possible he could stay with a Sydney-based side rather than return to Queensland, and wants to play for at least another two seasons.
"I am definitely open to (staying in Sydney). No doors are shut anywhere," Hunt said.
"I think the biggest priority is just wanting to enjoy my footy and try and go somewhere we can win a competition.
"I would really love the opportunity to go to a team that I think can win one."
