Former All Blacks and Crusaders prop Greg Somerville is poised to sign with Super 15 rugby expansion franchise the Melbourne Rebels, according to The Australian newspaper.

Somerville currently plays for English club Gloucester, and The Australian reported sources had revealed he has agreed to terms with the Rebels.

"I'm happy to say Greg Somerville is one of the players we are talking to," Rebels head coach Rod Macqueen told the paper.

The 32-year-old may have been considered for the All Blacks World Cup campaign, but that possibility would be ended if he signs with Melbourne, as New Zealand have a strict policy of not selecting overseas-based players.

Somerville's first-class scrummaging, work in loose play and his ability to play tight-head or loose-head prop would make him a smart pick up for the Rebels, who are also keen on Brumbies No.8 Stephen Hoiles and former St George Illawarra rugby league star Mark Gasnier.

There has also been speculation linking Brisbane league star Israel Folau to the Rebels, but Broncos officials claim the dominant outside back has promised to honour his league contract which runs through to the end of 2011.

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