Destructive Wallabies back-rower Wycliff Palu is willing to listen to offers from NRL clubs as the countdown to a decision on his future grows nearer.
Palu played for St George Illawarra in 2004 but struggled to make an impact and was unable to force his way into the top grade.
He returned to rugby union the following year, going on to represent NSW and the Wallabies and establishing himself as one of the most feared No.8s in the world.
The 27-year-old is off contract with the Australian Rugby Union at the end of 2010 and is leaning towards taking up a new offer or playing in Europe or Japan.
But a return to the NRL looms as an outside chance, with Palu feeling he left the 13-a-side game with unfinished business.
A move to rugby league would also keep him at home, with the constant travel in rugby
something the family-orientated Palu is not keen on.
Palu's manager Mark Jones told Sportal: "I will always listen to offers on behalf of my clients."
"He (Palu) follows it (the NRL) closely and has a number of friends involved in the game."
"I've heard nothing from rugby league at this stage but I'm sure there would be some interest."
"But I would imagine the salary cap would preclude any serious offer from an NRL club."
"I don't think they would be able to compete financially."
Further clouding Palu's decision is the 2011 World Cup in New Zealand.
He is desperate to be part of it but a move overseas – or to the NRL – would rule him our of the tournament.
"He's off contract at the end of this year and we're in discussions with the ARU and we're also talking to a number of clubs in Europe and Japan," Jones said.
"He is keen to play in next year's World Cup and at this stage his future is very much in rugby."
"This next deal will probably be his last and he needs to set both himself and his family up for life after rugby."