JOSH Dugan is interested in becoming a Bronco because the club can offer him the support to re-emerge as a representative star. Sources close to the sacked Raider said he wanted to be at a "large club, in a big city" and he believes the boredom of Canberra contributed to his code of conduct breaches.
The 22-year-old feels a club such as the Broncos, with its strong culture of professionalism, would benefit his development as a player and person.
Dugan last played for NSW in 2011.
In the past two seasons he only featured in 30 of the Raiders' 50 games as he battled injuries.
Dugan had repeated clashes with Canberra coach David Furner and Raiders officials.
The Broncos are in no rush to make a move on the former Blues custodian, content to wait until the NRL decides what stipulations will be written into his registration contract.
It was reported this week that Dugan had already spoken to Broncos football manager Andrew Gee.
St George Illawarra remain front runners for the Tuggeranong junior after the Titans pulled out of the race this week.
The Dragons say they are not negotiating with Dugan but admit they are interested in him.
An NRL club will sign the talented playmaker within two weeks because, at his best, Dugan is a game-winner who can turn a deficit into a lead within minutes.
"I know Josh Dugan is a wonderful talent, but you also have to be mindful of what you spend and take into account the position he plays and what he offers," former Broncos captain Darren Lockyer told AAP.
Ex-Broncos five-eighth Ben Ikin yesterday warned Brisbane against signing Dugan.
Meanwhile, Broncos prop Ben Hannant warned the club's forwards they would be destroyed if they failed to muscle up against the giant Sydney Roosters pack on Saturday night.
The Broncos have a weakened pack because of Josh McGuire's torn calf muscle but still field an imposing prop unit of Hannant and Sam Thaiday.
In a sign of the size of the Roosters pack, they have named 108kg former prop Frank-Paul Nuuausala at lock.
"What it is going to come down to is us really muscling up and getting into that arm wrestle early against them," Hannant said.
He refuted suggestions the Broncos were light in the forwards this week.
"We've got a lot of depth in the front row," Hannant said.
"Dunamis Lui had a great pre-season, Nick Slyney is there and Scott Anderson (could) start in most teams."
