The Kiwis forward Jason Taumalolo is reportedly set to become the richest man in rugby league.
The Dally M medallist is on the verge of signing a 10-year contract worth over $10 million with North Queensland, according to a News Corp Australia report.
The deal, which will see 24-year-old Taumololo become a Cowboys players for life, dwarfs that of superstar teammate Johnathan Thurston who signed for $5 million four years ago.
An official announcement of Taumolo's re-signing is expected as early as today.
"We are very hopeful of keeping Jason," Cowboys chairman Laurence Lancini told News Corp Australia.
"I don't really know if the NFL was a serious option, but we are doing everything to keep Jason at the Cowboys.
"He's very important to this club. He's not even 24 years old and he's playing outstanding football. His best years are ahead of him ... he's a powerhouse."
Asked if the Cowboys board had ratified a 10-year deal, Lancini said: "No comment."
Taumalolo travelled to Los Angeles in November for a NFL workout with scouts as he considered a permanent move to America.
He was offered an opportunity by three franchises, including Kansas City, to inspect their set-ups.
But that appears to be over now.
Photo: Photosport North Queensland forward Jason Taumalolo has been added to the Kiwis training squad.