Trent Robinson has given the strongest indication yet that the Sydney Roosters could pursue Ben Hunt, revealing the club is open to signing another spine player.
Hunt has ramped up his search for a new home this week, after being officially released by St George Illawarra during the Pacific Championships.
The halfback is expected to attract the interest of up to five clubs, as he weighs up staying in Sydney or a potential return home to Queensland.
If he does remain in Sydney, the Roosters are likely to lead the list of contenders.
The Tri-colours already have ample salary-cap space for next season, after losing a combined 1279 games in experience at the end of 2024.
They are also set to start the season without halfback Sam Walker and hooker Brandon Smith, with the pair not due back from ACL ruptures until about May.
Hunt has played in both of those positions previously, and could also aid the Roosters in their transition to life after Luke Keary in the halves.
Asked directly whether Hunt was someone the Roosters were looking at, Robinson said there were "a couple of players" in the club's sights.
"(The injuries) didn’t only affect the back end of this year, but it also affects the start of next year as well," Robinson said at the Roosters' announcement of electric-car manufacturer BYD as a new major sponsor.
"We’re really comfortable with some of the young guys coming through, but we are also looking at covering those positions if it’s right.
"We don’t feel like we’re in a rush, but if it’s right then we’ll look at options."
Robinson had said in May that the Roosters would prefer an experienced half to continue guiding the newly resigned Walker in the short term.
That same principle would also likely apply to Sandon Smith, who will start 2025 in the halves and is viewed as Walker's long-term partner.
The Tri-colours have since signed Chad Townsend, but it's likely Hunt's experience would still be appealing given his status as a State of Origin and Test representative.
The move would also fit Hunt's criteria of wanting to go to a club where he can win his first premiership.
"He (Hunt) is an exceptional player and has done it for a long time," Robinson said.
"People want a direct answer, but the thing is we’ve been clear about our squad for a while now.
"Ever since Luke (Keary) made his decision (to leave the NRL for the Super League), we were really clear and happy with where we were heading over the next couple of years.
"But if the opportunity arises to accommodate that No.7 and No.9 positions in different ways, then we will.
"But it has to be right for the next couple of years as well."
Beyond the Roosters, Hunt has previously admitted he sees a romanticism in returning to the Broncos.
But that could present salary-cap challenges, with continued uncertainty around Ezra Mam.
The Dolphins have indicated their interest, while Gold Coast and Canterbury are considered the less likely options.
