All Blacks halfback TJ Perenara has been mulling a switch to rugby league since February, according to NZ Kiwis and Melbourne Storm hooker Brandon Smith.
Perenara, 29, is reportedly discussing a switch to rugby league with Sydney Roosters, when he comes off contract with NZ Rugby at the end of this year.
The 2015 Rugby World Cup winner would conceivably play hooker for the Roosters and fill the void left by the retired Jake Friend.
Roosters coach Trent Robinson has confirmed his club’s interest in Perenara, as the Sydney Morning Herald reported a short-term NZ$140,000 was on the table.
Speaking to Australia's Fox Sports, Smith says he and Perenara have been in conversation since earlier this year.
"He messaged a bloke like myself in February, saying he was going to make that code switch, and how does he physically and mentally prep his body, and stuff like that," Smith says.
"He was asking me to send him clips of [Penrith Panthers hooker] Api Koroisau and learn deception around the ruck.
"Someone who has already been around professional sport for so long and asking a player like me - a nobody - it's awesome. It shows he's got a lot of respect for the game of rugby league.
"He messages us every game we play about who went well. He's a great supporter and I think he can only be good for the game."
Smith also joins the likes of cross-code star Sonny Bill Williams in endorsing Perenara in the 13-man code.
"I think he'd be real good.
"What I've heard from Aaron Smith is he's a massive talker on the field and he's really good at organising the boys around him.
"In rugby league, as a hooker, that's a great trait to have. He's got the mentality of a champion, he's been an All Black for years and years."
The 66-test veteran is no stranger to rugby league. Father Thomas represented New Zealand at youth level, while cousin Henry Perenara is a current NRL referee and former Kiwis international.
Perenara is currently playing in Japan with the NTT Red Hurricanes, but will return to New Zealand after his season ends on May 23.
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