Israel Folau poised to sign three-year deal with Rugby Australia and Waratahs

Wallabies fullback Israel Folau is set to sign a three-year deal with Rugby Australia and Waratahs according to reports.

Earlier, Australia head coach Michael Cheika broke the news and added that he is expecting the agreement with Folau to be signed off this week.

“I don’t know where it’s going to finish exactly, I hope it’s going to get finalised this week, but we’re keen for him to stay as close as he can for as long as he can,” Cheika told Fox Sports earlier in the week.

“We’ve invested now in him and you can see his versatility in the game now where he’s able to move from position to position even in a game and I think he’s still getting some of the ropes.”

Folau has been with Waratahs since 2013 and is a vital cog in Cheika's squad after featuring in 69 Tests for Australia since his debut.

New South Wales Rugby boss Andrew Hore also stated the deal with Folau is on the cards while also confirming that Bernard Foley is also likely to sign a one-year extension with Waratahs.

Hore also revealed that Adam Ashley-Cooper, who played for Waratahs between 2013 and 2015 has also expressed his interest to return back to the province with the World Cup around the corner.

"Adam Ashley-Cooper has expressed an interest,” he said.

“We think in a year such as a World Cup year, where depth is going to be important, that we can see merit in Adam coming back. Everyone speaks very highly of his character and leadership is a valuable asset."

After facing New Zealand in Yokohama on 27th October, Australia will face Wales, Italy and England in their November internationals.