Prop Addin Fonua-Blake's imminent departure from the Manly Sea Eagles has made him a prime target for NZ Warriors.
Manly has granted Fonua-Blake's request for an early release from the last two years of his contract, and the Tonga and former Kiwis international wants to relocate out of Sydney with his young family.
Newshub understands the Warriors are interested in signing Fonua-Blake and are setting up a meeting with the Tonga international and his manager in the next 24 to 48 hours to discuss a potential deal.
The Warriors have actively pursued another front-rower and missed out on the likes of Jack De Belin, David Fifita and Toby Rudolf in recent months.
The Auckland-based club is one of the few - alongside Brisbane Broncos and Gold Coast Titans - who have cap room to sign the 24-year-old Fonua.
In 2017, Fonua-Blake played one test for the Kiwis, before switching his allegiance to Tonga. He's since earned six caps for the Mate Ma'a.
Manly want compensation for Fonua-Blake's early release and have urged his management to move quickly to find another club.
"Whilst Addin is a senior and highly valued member of the Sea Eagles squad, and would be a huge loss, out of respect to him and his circumstances, the club has today given its permission for the exploratory conversations to be conducted immediately," says the Sea Eagles.
"The club will look favourably upon a request to release Addin from the final two years of his contract on compassionate grounds, as long as the Sea Eagles receive fair and reasonable compensation.
"The club has advised Addin and his manager that this matter needs to be resolved promptly, so that all parties can confidently plan for the future."
