Well A380 Jok, I hate to say it, but I believe that on this occasion, your buddy is way off the truth!
We aren't even confident in taking (apart from 1 type rated guy) F/O's directly on to the A380, so what makes him think that the powers that be would entrust the 'vagina' to 45 quality unknown DEC's? Surely IF DEC's were on the cards, they would go onto the minibus first?..... Doesn't really stack up does it?
So that little nugget alone washes away any credibility the original rumour may have had!
Not only that, but in order to ramp up recruitment from suitably qualified DEC's for 2 months time, wouldn't we be advertising like crazy by now, or would we keep it a secret again just like the same rumour at the same time last year (and the year before) would have us believe??
Never say never to DEC's, but this rumour is a non starter I'm afraid.