Former Wallabies second-rower Peter Kimlin looms as surprise potential recruit to replace ACT Brumbies captain Ben Mowen next year in a French swap set to revive his World Cup dream.

Kimlin is on the Brumbies' radar less than a year after the Canberra junior quit Australian rugby to link with French club Grenoble.

Peter Kimlin could be set for a return to the Brumbies. Credit:Karleen Minney

Kimlin was back in the capital last week and it is understood he has discussed a comeback with the Brumbies.

Brumbies and Wallabies skipper Mowen will quit Australian rugby at the end of the year to move to France and most likely join the Montpellier club.