Vignaroli had been keen to sign a three year deal to stay in the Hunter but Jets management refused to budge on their one year offer.

Protracted talks - which had initially looked to be a routine rubber-stamping of the new contract - broke down today and Vignaroli is believed to be on his way back to Italy soon.

He had joined the club for their Asian Champions League campaign and immediately made a huge impression on the club and fans.

Joel Griffiths departure to Beijing Guoan left a vacancy for a club marquee and the pint-sized 33 year old Italian seemed the ideal replacement for the troubled side after weeks of turmoil, squad unrest and management change.

But the deal soured yesterday when no agreement could be reached on the length of the deal. Vignaroli refused to train with the squad and walked out on the club.

Coach Branko Culina admitted his plans for the season were now in tatters just days before it kicks off.

"Fabio was a perfect marquee player," he said after the deal had collapsed. "You had him during the ACL - you knew exactly what you were getting so there was no guessing.

"I came to training with one team in mind - now I have to look at other options."

Jets CEO John Tsatsimas added: "We have our position and Fabio has his. Until there is some meeting of minds, it is a frustrating position."