The rumour mill has gone into overdrive following claims from veteran journalist Caroline Wilson that an AFL "comeback is on the cards" for retired Richmond champion Alex Rance.
With someone as full a resume as Rance has, the five-time All Australia would certainly be in demand should his services become available.
If Rance did indeed decide to return to the AFL, we've counted down the five most realistic landing spots.
Do you agree with our five?
3. Essendon
Richmond's defence with Rance at the helm was crucial to their rise to powerhouse status. And the architect of that defence was former Tigers defensive coach Ben Rutten, who will take over the top job at Windy Hill next year, while fellow ex-Tigers assistant Blake Caracella also now at Essendon.
If a similar game plan is introduced at the Bombers with two of his former coaches there, could Rance swap the yellow sash for red?
Essendon's defence is going through a transitional phase with Michael Hurley now over 30 and questions being asked of Cale Hooker's future in 2021. Youngster Jordan Ridley looks to be a cornerstone of the future, while Aaron Francis has shown glimpses of what he can produce.
The Bombers could target Rance as a veteran to help nurture the next wave of Bombers. He will not only rejuvenate the squad but also excite a fan base that has become jaded with the club's direction in recent seasons.
While a move to one of Richmond's rivals seems far-fetched, stranger things have happened and the coaching connection is there. One phone call and a bucket load of cash could persuade a man.
