Ben Hunt wants to get a contact extension at St George Illawarra sorted after the State of Origin series is over, and says the recruitment of Damien Cook has given him confidence in the club's future.
The 34-year-old Dragon skipper, on contract until the end of 2025, asked for a release last year when he was dissatisfied with the direction the club was taking.
That has now changed under the coaching of Shane Flanagan, with the Dragons building a squad to be reckoned with, including South Sydney hooker Cook on a two-year deal.
Back-rower Jaydn SuA has also re-signed until the end of 2026.
In the Maroons camp ahead of game two of the series at the MCG, Queensland hooker Hunt was asked if he wanted to stay at the Dragons.
"Yeah mate. At this stage there is nothing really in place, but I have talked to 'Flanno' and we are just waiting to get through Origin and sit down and have a chat about it," Hunt said.
"All things are going well. I am really excited that Jaydn is extended with the club and we have got Cooky coming on board."
A new one-year extension would ensure Hunt finishes his career as a Dragon.
He said he was keen to strike up a rapport with Cook, who he rates highly.
"He’s huge, not just as a player but also as a leader around the club," Hunt said.
"He is an old head and has played at the top level in Origin and knows what it takes to be a professional.
"The more guys like that you can bring to the club the better, and I am just really excited we were able to lure a guy of his calibre to the club."
As recently as last Maroons camp Hunt was still undecided about his future. He said he wouldn't rule out a move to the Gold Coast.
The Dragons are on the cusp of the top eight, and the signings of Cook and SuA have him convinced the future is bright.
"We have got some great signings and we have extended guys that needed to hang around, like Jaydn," Hunt said.
"It is really exciting times and the club is moving forward."
