Cronulla are expected to announce the signing next week of Ben Barba from Brisbane Broncos.
The former Bulldogs star is under contract with the Broncos but they granted him permission to negotiate with other clubs.
Barba was released from his Bulldogs contract in August 2013 to sign a three-year deal with the Broncos.
But new coach Wayne Bennett has made way for fullback Darius Boyd to join the club and told Barba he could look elsewhere.
The Sharks and the Broncos management are finalising the arrangements and the Leader understands Barba who can play fullback, five-eighth and halfback, is poised to sign in a matter of days.
Barba lived in Sutherland Shire when he played for the Bulldogs.
Barba, 25, has played 122 NRL games and scored 80 tries at the two clubs.
Cronulla are keen to find a suitable replacement for Todd Carney.
Barba’s pace, footwork and attacking prowess is what Sharks coach Flanagan is looking for in the halves in 2015.
Can Ben Barba be a success at the Sharks in 2015?
