Justin Leppitsch at TIO Stadium in 2020. Picture: Getty Images

FORMER Brisbane coach Justin Leppitsch says he remains unsure about a return to AFL ranks amid speculation linking him to assistant jobs at Carlton and Collingwood.

A highly rated member of Richmond's coaching staff during their past three premierships, Leppitsch wanted a break from club work and opted to leave the Tigers at the end of last season.

Now working in the media, the 45-year-old is in demand after helping build a dynasty working with Damien Hardwick at Punt Road.

A report this week revealed Leppitsch had fielded multiple offers from the Blues while the struggling Magpies are keen on employing him as a senior assistant.

Leppitsch admitted there had been talks but said he had not made up his mind about any future plans.

"If I have a conversation in confidence it's got to stay that way, which makes it difficult because at times you want to say 'that's incorrect or that's right'," he told radio station SEN.

"There's some parts you want to say are true or untrue but I just can't start doing that.

"My decision to go back to the game isn't 100 per cent yet.

Dylan Grimes and Justin Leppitsch after the Tigers' preliminary final victory over Geelong at the MCG in 2019. Picture: AFL Photos

"If you asked me if I had to turn up for work tomorrow and what my answer would be, it would probably be no.

"People have got to remember, I left the game for a reason and you've got to come back for a reason."

Leppitsch joked it was up to SEN boss Craig Hutchinson to sign up the station's "number one talent".

The former star defender coached the Lions between 2014 and 2016 for a 14-52 record, during a tumultuous time for the club he played in three successive premierships for.