The Angels remain interested in bringing back outfielder Torii Hunter, despite a report that the team is “unlikely” to re-sign one of the franchise’s icons.

“Finding a way to fit Torii in is a challenge, but we have been open that we want him back,” General Manager Jerry Dipoto said Thursday. “We haven’t closed the door on Torii and he hasn’t closed the door on us.”

Earlier in the day, MLBTradeRumors.com, citing an unnamed source, reported that a deal between Hunter and the Angels was unlikely.

Hunter presents a difficult situation for the Angels because he is 37, an age when players are likely to decline, but he’s coming off one of his best seasons. He’s also considered a valuable leader in the clubhouse, including his role as a mentor to young superstar Mike Trout.

The Angels also have a crowded outfield, with Trout, Mark Trumbo, Peter Bourjos and Vernon Wells.

They also need pitching, with only Jered Weaver and C.J. Wilson signed for next year. They would like to bring back Zack Greinke, but he likely will command a deal of at least $20 million a year. The Angels have options on Dan Haren ($15.5 million) and Ervin Santana ($13 million).

“We think a lot of him (Hunter) as a person and as a player and we appreciate what he does in the clubhouse and in the community,” Dipoto said. “But we have to do what we can do within the confines of the 25 man roster.”

Hunter made $18 million last season in the final year of a five-year, $90-million deal. He had said he would be willing to play for less to come back to the Angels, but the question is how much less he would take.

Hunter will become a free agent after the World Series, and the Angels will have to decide whether to make him a qualifying offer of $13.3 million.

If they make the offer, Hunter has seven days to decide to accept it. If he does, he will be considered signed for 2013. If he rejects it and signs with another club, the Angels would receive draft pick compensation. Hunter and the Angels could continue to negotiate even if he rejects the qualifying offer.

Contact the writer: jlfletcher@ocregister.com