Ben Hannant - coming home?

News has emerged recently that Ben Hannant, former Bronco, is seeking an exit from his current Bulldogs contract and wants to return to Queensland. He has cited family reasons for this and the Bulldogs appear to be willing to release him. Initially I was excited to hear about this - Hannant is just what we need in our forward pack as he provides go-forward and starch. His asking price? $450,000.

It's a widely known fact that the Broncos have a bit of space under the cap to work with. Cutting Clinton, losing Hunt, Boyd, Stagg and co. assisted in that department. Finding the $450k shouldn't be a stretch I don't believe (Bruno Cullen has said discussions can be held but that's about it). The Titans are also keen on him but do they really want to have spent a potential $800,000-$900,000 in the Prop position? Strong Props are a must but not at that price.

My only concern with Hannant is his asking price. The Broncos can afford it and word has it that the Titans can as well. Hannant is 25 - Props don't hit their peak until 29 or 30 usually. If he's asking $450,000 now, what will he ask when he's 28? $550,000? $600,000? That's getting into ridiculous wages for a Front Row Forward. Don't get me wrong - Props are vital to a side and provide the groundwork for the backs to weave their magic. $500,000 contracts were once reserved for your Andrew John's and Darren Lockyer's - is Hannant of that ilk and influence?

Ultimately, I think the Broncos need to sign Hannant. He has an incredible work-rate for a big man and has that never-say-die attitude that we've been lacking. Let's hope for our sake that it's a mid-season transfer!