That player is Broughton, 28, who fell out of contract at the end of this season.
However, Gold Coast have committed to redrafting him as a rookie, in a move agreed to by both the player and his management.
Broughton could nominate for the NAB AFL Draft and be selected by any team, but it is believed he will nominate for the pre-season draft instead, where the Suns intend to re-draft him as a rookie.
With no veteran on Gold Coast's list, AFL rules would then allow Broughton to be upgraded to the senior list as a nominated rookie, ensuring his availability for round one.
Gold Coast list manager Scott Clayton said he was confident the medium-sized defender would stay.
"We're both very keen for the relationship to continue," Clayton said.
"He'd rather stay on the Gold Coast and play with us, but he has to go through this process.
"We'll take him as a rookie if we get the opportunity.
"I don't think he's keen to get up and go, but that's the rules and hopefully he remains with us."
Broughton played 20 games in 2014, averaging 17 disposals.
He has played 105 career games after heading east from Fremantle after the 2012 season.
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