Sam Walker is reportedly set for talks with South Sydney with the halfback’s future still uncertain.
The Roosters withdrew from contract negotiations with Walker after he demanded $1.2 million a season.
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That would have made him one of the highest paid players in the league, with the Roosters now keen to get him off the books despite a year remaining on his contract.
That has put a number of rivals on high alert with talk Walker could even switch codes to rugby union.
However, Souths have now entered the frame for his signature despite initially playing down the chance of a move.
The club were approached by a third party who gave an indication that Walker would be interested in joining the Rabbitohs, report Code Sports.
Souths would have to find room in their salary cap to accommodate Walker however, with his Australian teammate Jack Bostock also in their sights.
One option could be to let Latrell Mitchell leave amid interest from Perth Bears.
The club would also need to fend off interest from NRL rivals including the PNG Chiefs, as well as the Wallabies.
Last week Rugby Australia boss Phil Waugh opened the door to Walker and another other NRL stars when asked about acquiring the 24-year-old.
“We’ve been consistent on this, about creating an environment where we want players, as many great players as we can, coming into rugby,” Waugh said.
“We’ve said it a million times, the door’s open for athletes who want to achieve something great.
“He’s one that’s obviously achieved great things in rugby league.
“With his skill set, he’s got the capability to play both codes at the highest level.”
It is believed Walker’s preference is to see out his final 12 months with the Roosters.
However the Bondi club will not stand in his way and will even pay a part of his contract to get him to leave, though that offer is unlikely to be extended to the Souths rivals.
His manager Clinton Schifcofske also opened the door to a switch to rugby union amid reported interest from the Queensland Reds in Super Rugby.
“Sam would look at the opportunity,” he said.
Originally published as Sam Walker set for crunch talks in bombshell move after third party arranges deal