Hunt,however,has told those close to him a change is the best thing for his football and future.

A club that is ready to push for premiership success is ideal,but not vital to any deal.

Bulldogs general manager Phil Gould has spoken with Hunt about joining Canterbury,but Hunt’s heart lies in Queensland. He has often spoken about returning home once his career ends,but his family would love for that move to happen sooner rather than later.

Hunt is prepared to see out his Dragons deal,but is privately happy his intentions have now been made public.

This masthead has reached out to Hunt and the Dragons for comment.

Meanwhile,Canterbury have been linked to former Panthers premiership winner Tyrone May. May was sacked by Penrith for a controversial Instagram post after the 2021 grand final,which referenced an earlier court case where he pleaded guilty to filming an intimate image without consent.

May has been playing in the Super League with Catalans,but is keen to return home and has a strong friendship with Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo.

May also wants to play with his brothers,Terrell and Taylan,who are off contract at the Roosters and Panthers respectively at the end of 2024.

Catalans coach Steve McNamara said on Saturday night:“We’ve been having ongoing dialogue with Tyrone,but nothing has come of it yet.

“He’s been super since he’s come here – he’s been great for us – but we also know he has a long-held desire to play with his brothers.

“He’s in the best condition he’s probably been in,his diet regime has been outstanding,and the way he’s lived his life since he’s been here,he’s in great physical shape and a really smart player – he’s probably one of the most intelligent players I’ve coached in terms of rugby knowledge.

“He’s a player we’d be keen to play,but we also know he’s a player NRL clubs will look at.”

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