Despite distancing himself from the position, Queensland coach Kevin Walters is clearly in the sights of NRL club Gold Coast.
Within hours of the Titans announcing they had parted ways with Garth Brennan on Sunday, Walters said he was committed to the Maroons and had unfinished business at State of Origin level.
His rebuff hasn't put off the Titans however, with executive chairman Dennis Watt indicating the club would be keen to speak to the 51-year-old about their vacancy.
"Clearly if Kevvie was putting his hand up to be in the running he would be a very strong candidate," Watt said on Monday.
"The way he's led his life has been quite inspirational.
"I think he showed on Wednesday night in the Origin decider that he was able to extract more than anyone thought from that Queensland side. For them to still be in the running at the end of the game, was, I thought, an outstanding coaching effort.
"If he was willing and available and prepared to put his hand he'd be strongly in consideration."
The six-time premiership winner, who played alongside Titans' head of performance and culture Mal Meninga at Canberra, is one of several names linked to the role.
Watt said the club had already received a number of expressions of interest with brother pairing Shane and Ben Walker, Sydney Roosters assistants Craig Fitzgibbon and Adam O'Brien and St Helen's coach Justin Holbrook among those reportedly in the running.
Anthony Griffin presents an attractive option, having coached at NRL level with Brisbane and Penrith and being available.
Watt knows Griffin well from his boardroom roles at the Broncos and said he would present another attractive option.
"He's got a proven track record," Watt said.
"He's got a very positive coaching record. Renowned for developing young talent (is) Anthony. I think he's got a great mind for the game."
One man who won't be applying for the position is Meninga, with Watt saying there was "no chance" the Kangaroos coach would be putting his hand up.
Watt said the club would be willing to spend whatever was needed to lure the best candidate and he hoped the position would be filled by the end of the current season.
"Whatever we need to do to ensure we've got the best qualified candidate, that's what we'll do."
Australian Associated Press
