Essendon coach Mark Thompson is on Melbourne's hit-list to follow Paul Roos as senior coach.
In a prospect likely to excite Melbourne fans, the pair of coaches spoke candidly about the notion on Fox Footy's AFL 360 program on Monday night.
The Demons are beginning the search for Roos' replacement when he leaves the job, which Roos will play a major role in.
The Sydney premiership coach has committed to just two years - with an optional third year - as senior coach before helping to transition in a new coach.
"We have not spoken to anyone, what we'll do is put a list together and then cull the list to who are interested," Roos said.
Asked whether Thompson was on the first list, Roos replied "absolutely".
A slightly uncomfortable Thompson replied "I'm honoured".
But the million dollar question is would Thompson consider it?
"I've got no idea ... he doesn't need me."
Roos again ruled out staying beyond two or three years as senior coach but was open to staying involved.
"To be the senior coach you have to want to be the senior coach," he said.
"Part of me coming back was in a role that involved succession, I believe in that and I've seen it work."
"It's not going to be as senior coach but I'd like to be involved in some capacity."
Thompson also backed his former Geelong player Cameron Ling to make a widely-tipped move from a media role into coaching.
"He's a good commentator, I think he'd be a better coach," he said.
"I can't praise him enough for being a good on-field coach, being a total pro and knowing a lot about the game."
Ling told Melbourne radio station 3AW he is considering a shift to a full-time coaching role from next season.
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