Gold Coast have set their sights on mature-aged free agent Stephen Hill as a potential option to add pace and experience to their midfield, as the 28-year-old moves closer to a senior return with the Dockers.

The surprise move from the Suns comes as they look to add maturity to their list, which has been competitive in 2019, winning three games and pushing their rivals for at least three quarters in most matches.

Stephen Hill is on the comeback from injury and close to a return for Fremantle. Credit:Pat Scala

At his best, Hill is an explosive runner who can break the lines. His importance is only likely to increase with the wing position now vital to teams under the new six-six-six rules and the elimination of runners.

However, Hill has not played since round 20 last season, when he hurt his quad. He was forced to have surgery to remove scar tissue on his left quad to overcome the injury, having played just 13 games for the season.