Cross-code superstar Sonny Bill Williams' chances of rejoining the NRL have received a massive boost, with the New Zealander reportedly flying into Australia next week.
According to the Daily Telegraph, Williams' agent has booked airline tickets for the former All Black and his family to arrive in the country next Wednesday.
Williams' wife has an Australian passport, which is hoped will fast track the 34-year-old's entry into Australia, which is currently only permitted for permanent residents and Australian citizens.
The Sydney Roosters emerged as frontrunners to acquire Williams for the remainder of the 2020 premiership after his manager met with Roosters boss Nick Politis on Wednesday.
Williams' eligibility to return to the NRL opened up when his current team, Toronto Wolfpack, withdrew from the remainder of the English Super League season. A return down under would see Williams take the field with about four to five rounds remaining in the season before the finals commence.
The NRL's transfer deadline hits on August 3rd, with the two-time premiership winner expected to make an announcement surrounding his future plans in the coming days.
On Thursday afternoon, the Sydney Morning Herald reported Sydney outside back Asu Kepaoa was set to be released to join the Wests Tigers, potentially freeing up a spot in the club's roster for Williams.
While the Roosters were previously reluctant to let Kepaoa walk, the Williams speculation appears to have changed their tune.
However, just as everything was falling into place for the Chooks, reports emerged Williams potential return still has significant red tape to be cleared with league officials. It means the deal may not be registered and approved by the NRL for several days.
Roosters captain Boyd Cordner would love to see Williams return to the club where he won a premiership in 2013, but he insists the Tricolours won't be filthy if SBW joins a rival team.
"We have got no attachment with Sonny at the moment, so if he chooses another club that is fine," Cordner said.
"But if he does make a return to the NRL, I'd definitely like to play alongside Sonny again.
"He would bring a lot of experience and he has got that X-factor."
Sonny Bill Williams's Toronto Wolfpack season was cut short. Photo / Getty
Although the Roosters are reportedly are capable of signing Williams under their salary cap, Cronulla Sharks great Paul Gallen warned rugby league fans should not get their hopes up.
"He's almost my age. He hasn't played in the game since 2014," Gallen told 2GB radio on Tuesday.
"He's not the same Sonny Bill Williams that we all remember.
"To think he's going to come back to the NRL and be the player that he was in 2013, you're dreaming."
