Front-rower James Gavet is poised to re-sign with the Warriors on a two year deal that will keep him at the club through to the end of the 2019 NRL season.
The Herald understands Gavet has earned a contract upgrade after a string of impressive performances since forcing his wayinto the Warriors starting side for the round five win over the Gold Coast Titans.
The 27-year-old has hit top form with his abrasive running and tackling helping the Warriors win the battle around the ruck to provide halves Shaun Johnson and Kieran Foran with room to move.
Gavet's extension comes after he joined the Warriors on a trial-basis in the late stages of pre-season training last year, before signing a one-year deal in February.
His return to New Zealand followed a frustrating run of injuries that limited him to just 14 games in stints with the Canterbury Bulldogs, Wests Tigers, and Brisbane Broncos.
Speaking to media yesterday, Gavet remained guarded about his contract negotiations but made it clear he was hoping to remain in Auckland.
"(The Warriors) are in talks with my agent at the moment but he's just looking for what's best for me and I'll probably be hearing from him in the next couple of days," said Gavet.
"My foundation has always been here. I grew up in Auckland and all my family and my kids are here so it would be nice to (stay).
"But as far as the market goes you still want to be somewhere where you're getting what you're worth."
After undergoing shoulder surgery at the end of last season, Gavet has benefitted from a full pre-season and started the year strongly playing the opening three rounds for the Warriors second tier Intrust Super Premiership side.
He was promoted to the bench for the Warriors round four defeat to St George Illawarra but showed enough in that match to win a promotion the following week and has gone from strength to strength over the last month.
