Scott Johnson has a get-out clause in his Australia contract

Johnson is the current Australia backs coach but has a get-out clause in his contract once the World Cup ends.

The 44-year-old says he is keen to work with Blues director of rugby Dai Young, who Johnson is good friends with.

"If an opportunity arises I'd certainly look at it," Johnson told BBC Radio Wales' The Back Page programme.

"I've got a huge regard for Dai Young and he is someone I will coach with in future, there's no doubt about it."

Blues chairman Peter Thomas said he would welcome Australian Johnson taking up a role at the Arms Park under Young.

We should be flattered Scott Johnson is considering the Blues Cardiff Blues chairman Peter Thomas

"I would think that Dai will look very seriously at it," Thomas said. "It would be absolutely wonderful, but ultimately it would be Dai's recommendation.

"Whenever coaches or people of Scott Johnson's calibre come along then you must look at them.

"I think the combination of Scott Johnson, (Blues backs coach) Rob Howley and Dai Young would be a wonderful team.

"We should be flattered he's considering the Blues."

If Johnson does opt to join the Blues then the plan would be to have him in place before the Heineken Cup starts in November.

He was Wales skills coach during the 2005 Grand Slam and took over as caretaker head coach for three matches in 2006 after Mike Ruddock's shock departure.

Johnson signed a three-year deal as assistant to Wallabies head coach John Connolly after returning from Wales in 2006.

But Johnson has a get-out clause which enables him to leave his post with Australia at the end of the tournament.

"I'm contracted with Australia until the World Cup, and then I've got an option to go out and an option to go on," Johnson added.

"I miss the UK, I miss having a home base, I miss going to games that are close and coming home.

"I've made no secret of my desire to get back."

Johnson has been linked with the newly-created role of Welsh Rugby Union elite performance director, but says he has not been offered the post.

The Back Page

*Johnson was speaking to BBC Radio Wales' The Back Page programme, which is broadcast Saturday mornings 0830-0900.