The Sydney star has talked up the Saints' prospects, which look bleak after they dropped to 16th this year.

Hannebery confirmed St Kilda are his only potential destination and he is confident a trade deal will be struck.

"I haven't made this decision overnight, I've clearly looked at some of the players they have and who are coming through," he said.

"No doubt they're a young, developing club.

"They wouldn't have had the year they were expecting, but they beat Melbourne ... and they pushed the Tigers all the way (in round 10).

"I'm super-impressed by their footy club."

The 2012 premiership player is set to leave the Swans with three years left on his contract.

Despite the unusual circumstances, Hannebery said he and Sydney agreed on him trying to move back to his native Victoria.

Hannebery added he would be happy to stay with the Swans, but is confident about a deal being struck.

"It all happened very quickly as I thought I'd be a Swan for life," he said.

"Things change really quick. 'Why now?' is because I guess it's probably the right time."

Injury restricted Hannebery to 15 games this season, his lowest total in nine years.

But he played the last four matches and is upbeat about what he can offer St Kilda.

"I have a lot of work to do, but I'm really confident I can get back to full health and top form," he said.

Australian Associated Press