Scorchers target Johnson deal

Perth Scorchers are hoping to pull off a massive coup on the eve of their KFC Big Bash League title defence, with retired Test quick Mitchell Johnson said to be interested in joining the franchise.

Johnson retired from international cricket following the Perth Test last week, meaning his normally busy schedule is open for the entire BBL season.

He is contracted to Indian Premier League franchise Kings XI Punjab for the 2016 season, while wife Jessica said "he might play some T20" following his retirement announcement on Tuesday.

WATCH: Johnson's emotional WACA farewell

BBL chief Anthony Everard said last week the competition would welcome a player of Johnson's quality, but the details of the left-armer’s contract are complicated with the start of the season less than a month away.

The 34-year-old can't sign a full deal with the Scorchers because the defending champions have already filled their roster for the season.

But the Scorchers are hoping to secure Johnson's services as a 'replacement player', with Western Australia Cricket Association chief executive Christina Matthews confirming his interest.

"We’ve had indications that he’s keen to play for us," Matthews told News Corp.

"We’re confident that we can work with him and his management to make it all work out."

The rules regarding replacement players were expanded last summer to include those called up for international duty during the BBL competition.

Australia's international campaign will run parallel to the BBL again this summer; the Test series against the West Indies runs up until January 7 before India arrive in Australia for limited overs matches from January 12 to 31.

Given Scorchers captain Adam Voges, allrounder Mitchell Marsh and batsman Shaun Marsh are all currently involved with Australia's Test side, and the likes of the younger Marsh, Nathan Coulter-Nile and Ashton Agar will be in the frame for Australia's limited overs sides in January, it's likely the Scorchers will be able to call on a replacement player throughout their BBL campaign.

WATCH: Johnson explains decision to retire

However, Johnson would not be allowed to officially sign as a replacement player until the call-ups are confirmed by the National Selection Panel.

A further sweetener for Johnson joining the Scorchers is the fact that their first two matches are at home - on December 21 and 26 - meaning he could spend Christmas in Perth with his family.

Speaking last week, Everard was excited about the prospect of adding some more star power to what looms as another thrilling competition.

"We’d love to see him involved,” Big Bash League chief Anthony Everard told News Corp of Johnson.

"We have a really strong line-up already but he would add another dimension.

"It’s really simple from where we sit. We’d love to see him involved.

"There’s a couple of clubs that still have spots to fill."

Johnson had previously signed with both the Scorchers and the Brisbane Heat, but his international commitments have prevented him from playing.