Western Force chief executive Greg Harris is hopeful the Super 14 franchise can retain the services of star playmaker Matt Giteau beyond 2009, despite reports the 25-year-old has failed to receive promised payments from sponsor Firepower.

Third-party payments from Firepower, a fuel technology company, were a major factor in luring Giteau to Perth on a three-year, $4.5 million contract.

But with Firepower's third-party payments in doubt, the Wallaby's future at the Force is shrouded in mystery.

Giteau is committed to Australian rugby until the 2011 World Cup but is only contracted to the Force until the end of 2009.

Firepower is reportedly on the verge of collapse and still owes millions of dollars to rugby players, basketballers and other creditors.

The Sydney Kings basketball team, owned by Firepower boss Tim Johnston, is in crisis after player salary cheques bounced earlier this month.

It has been reported that other Force players, including Drew Mitchell, Ryan Cross and Cameron Shepherd, are also owed money by Firepower.

"There have been speculative news reports in the Sydney Morning Herald and the West Australian this week relating to late payments to Western Force players by Firepower Global," Harris said in a statement.

"We are currently working through some critical issues with a small group of players who have third-party arrangements with the company."

Harris said RugbyWA was unable to speculate on the amount of money owed to its players in third-party arrangements.

"These arrangements were made separate to the players' RugbyWA and ARU contracts and we are not in a position to comment on any amounts owed to the players," he said.

"It is standard policy not to discuss any financial arrangements in player contracts.

"The players have made us aware of the issues and as a responsible employer we will do everything we can to achieve the best possible outcome for those whose third-party arrangements are under duress."

Harris said retaining the services of Giteau remained a priority.

"It is my understanding that a very attractive offer has been made to Matt and his management to assist in extending his contract with the Western Force beyond 2009," Harris said.

The Force recently secured the services of open-side flanker David Pocock until the end of 2010 and are currently locked in negotiations with teenage sensation James O'Connor.

Captain Nathan Sharpe, Shepherd, Cross, Scott Daruda, Troy Takiari and AJ Whalley are others to have re-signed with the Force this year.

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