Smeltz, 29, is being chased by the Jets as their international marquee player, while Perth Glory and his current club Gold Coast are also in the race for his signature.

Tinkler Sports Group chief executive Troy Palmer said the Jets hadn't formally put an offer on the table for Smeltz but were closing in on the former Johnny Warren Medallist.

‘‘We have not tabled an offer as such in black and white, but we have spoken figures,’’ Palmer told the Newcastle Herald.

‘‘We have an indication of what he is after and the terms and are now negotiating those finer points and seeing if we can get close.

‘‘Ideally we will have an answer from him by Monday.’’

Palmer added: ‘‘He is a proven goal scorer, is still fairly young and has a relationship and connection with our other marquee, Jason Culina.”

Palmer also revealed Newcastle would discuss bringing in a guest player for next season for star appeal.

‘‘That is something we would consider if we think we need a spark and it fits into our squad,’’ Palmer said.

The Newcastle Herald also believes the Jets are chasing Sydney FC full-back Byun Sung-hwan and Melbourne Heart defender Michael Beauchamp.