Kitzbuhel, so impressive at Kempton over Christmas, heads nine entries for the Virgin Bet Scilly Isles Novices’ Chase at Sandown on Saturday.
If he runs, the spring-heeled grey could give his owner Joe and Marie Donnelly a chance of fortune having seen both State Man and Sir Gino ruled out for the season.
Kitzbuhel led his rivals a merry dance in the Kauto Star Novices’ Chase but would be dropping in trip this weekend, with Mullins also entering last season’s Coral Cup winner Jimmy Du Seuil.
There is further Irish interest in the form of Gordon Elliott’s mare Kala Conti, who has looked good over fences to date.