TJ Perenara's move to the Sydney Roosters could happen as early as next month, as the NRL club steps up its bid for the All Blacks halfback.
The 29-year-old, who is currently playing for the Red Hurricanes in Japan's Top League, was first linked to a shock move to the NRL last week.
Perenara is negotiating his next career move after opting out of his contract with New Zealand Rugby to play in Japan.
The Roosters are looking to strengthen their hooking depth after the forced retirement of Jake Friend and injury to Freddy Lussick who suffered a broken arm.
NRL.com reports that the Roosters have been in talks with Perenara to fill that role and that he "may arrive from Japanese rugby union next month".