Sonny Bill set to sign with Blues

Auckland - Sonny Bill Williams is likely to head to the Blues after reports suggest that he might sign a new three-year contract with New Zealand Rugby and transfer to Auckland.

According to the Stuff.co.nz website, New Zealand Rugby has scheduled a press conference in Auckland on Wednesday and is likely to confirm Williams’ signing to the Blues.

Williams’ agent Khoder Nasser said that the All Black centre would like to stay close to his family, who reside in Auckland and is keen on playing for the Blues. It is believed that with All Black players such as Charlie Ngatai and Seta Tamanivalu, the Chiefs do not need Williams to serve in midfield, while the Blues need him more.  

Chiefs coach, Dave Rennie, has met with the player and his manager several times and said that he’s done everything he possibly could to secure Williams.

"We've put absolutely our best foot forward and done everything we can to hopefully make the Chiefs compelling for Sonny. And now it's largely beyond our control, to a degree," Rennie said.

The 30-year-old's contract with New Zealand Rugby will expire at the end of this year.