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Sydney - Wallabies star James O'Connor, Australian rugby's hottest property, says he will make his decision on where to play his Super rugby from next year later this week.
The 20-year-old, whose late try and nerveless conversion last October helped Australia beat the All Blacks for the first time in 11 attempts, is being pursued by the Rebels, Reds and Brumbies.
The Perth-based Western Force are also desperate to retain one of their brightest talents and may present an enhanced new offer to him, local media reported.
"I haven't made a decision yet, but it'll be a footy decision," O'Connor told Tuesday's Australian.
"This is the time-frame I wanted to look at, this week," he added. "Until now I just wanted to focus on football. But now I will just go through everything and see who is going to be best for me."
A brilliant footballer and thrilling runner of the ball, O'Connor can play anywhere on the backline barring scrumhalf and was Australia's second youngest test debutant when he made his international bow at the age of 18 in 2008.
The Force have alternated him between fullback and inside centre this season, while most of his international caps have come in the back three.
His importance to the Force, who have won just three of 11 matches despite some good performances in their sixth Super rugby season, goes beyond his on-field presence.
"There is James's value to the team and then there is James's value to the franchise," Force chief executive Vern Reid told the paper.
"What James does is complete our retention puzzle and puts a sparkle on it. We see him being fundamental to our successful development."
The Rebels, who have already signed up his international team mate and friend Kurtley Beale for next season, are widely conisdered to be favourites to capture his signature.
