Wellington - The Crusaders are set to sign Chiefs and All Blacks centre Seta Tamanivalu for next year's Super Rugby season.
Tamanivalu was in important players for the Chiefs in this year's competition and received an All Blacks call-up for the series against Wales in June.
According to the New Zealand Herald the Chiefs did not comment on the move but their sources confirmed the Crusaders were interested in his services and were close to signing him.
Tamanivalu scored nine tries for the Chiefs in the 16 games he played in 2016 - just two less than Waratahs star Israel Folau who topped Super Rugby scoring with 11.
The Crusaders have a void to fill in midfield after Tuesday's confirmation that Robbie Fruean has signed for English club, Bath.