The Jets have publicly admitted their interest in the 33-year-old, with reports from the Hunter Valley claiming that he is definitely en route to meet with club officials. Gary Van Egmond and his team will arrive in Wellington later today, ahead of their Pre-Season Cup play-off match against Phoenix on Friday night.

Jets insiders have told au.fourfourtwo.com there is “nothing concrete” regarding the proposed deal that would make Jardel the club’s marquee player. If the deal eventuates, current marquee player Ante Covic will be moved to fit under the salary cap.

The stumbling block is believed to surround Jardel’s physical condition with the Jets insisting he satisfy club medical staff before any agreement is finalised. Despite his fine goalscoring history, Jardel has struggled with weight problems in recent years.

The acting head of the A-League Rob Abernethy yesterday told News Limited newspapers that the FFA has not yet received a formal submission regarding the former Brazil striker.

Another possible hitch would be an FFA veto of the move, similar to one activated when the Jets tried to sign controversial English frontman Stan Collymore last season. Jardel is alleged to have had problems with gambling and drugs in the past, but the Jets feel they won't encounter the same problems should they wish to sign the former Porto and Galatasaray hero.

With the Jets’ round one match against Perth Glory now just 17 days away, it is likely that Jardel is still weeks from appearing in the A-League, if at all.