DETROIT -- Mike Modano probably never envisioned going on a recruiting trip at age 40.

The former Dallas Stars center flew to Detroit on Tuesday and spent three hours over lunch listening to Red Wings general manager Ken Holland and coach Mike Babcock make a strong pitch for his services. He then attended the Tigers game with the Red Wings’ brass.

Afterward, Modano said he is seriously considering joining the Red Wings.

“They are very serious about how I can help them, and that’s a great feeling,’’ Modano told the Dallas Morning News. “I can see myself fitting in with this group, and to hear that they want me, that does make you feel you can definitely still play.’’

Holland said he and Babcock told Modano why they would like him to join their team and explained what his role would be.

The Red Wings think Modano can fit in nicely as their third-line center. The future Hall-of-Famer has spent his entire 20-year NHL career with the Stars, who declined to offer him a new contract.

“It was an opportunity to sit down with him, hear what he’s thinking, have him hear what we’re thinking,’’ Holland said. “It was a get-to-know-one-another session.’’

Holland said Modano gave no indication if he will play next season and no time frame on making a decision. He was scheduled to fly back to Dallas on Wednesday.

“He’s determining his future. He wanted to know what we think,’’ Holland said. “He wants to talk to people close to him. He’s got to determine if he has the energy, the enthusiasm, the determination and the drive to play again.’’

It certainly sounds like Modano is motivated to continue playing.

“They are not trying to pressure me, but they want me to be sure,'' Modano said. "So I’ll go home and talk to some people and we’ll get back together on the phone.’’

Holland said he has discussed the parameters of a contract with Modano’s agent.

“We don’t have much cap space,’’ Holland said. “I’ve had conversations with his agent with what we can do in regards to money.’’

The Red Wings are expected to offer a one- or two-year deal worth between $1 million and $1.5 million a season.

The chance to win another Stanley Cup (he won with Dallas in 1999) is appealing to Modano.

"They have a vision for where I fit and what I can do to help the team,'' Modano said. "And obviously, getting a chance to play for a team that really feels it has a chance to win the Cup, that's important.''

Said Holland: “He’s a local superstar, one of the greatest American players ever. We’ve had good success with older players.’’