The Jets, currently sitting second and just five points off league leaders Sydney FC, have enjoyed a stunning turnaround since collecting last season's wooden spoon.

And coach Ernie Merrick said the signing of McGree from January for the rest of the campaign would assist the Hunter outfit maintain the momentum in 2018.

“Riley is an exciting young player who will offer a lot to our side, he likes to get forward, he can play wide but he can also play in a holding role – he gives us plenty of options,” Merrick said.

McGree, currently on a three-year deal with the Belgian heavyweights, Club Brugge, is considered one of Australian football’s brightest prospects.

The versatile midfielder had a breakout year with the Adelaide Reds in season 2016/17, making 16 appearances in addition to five Asian Champions League matches.

McGree’s form was also rewarded with selection on two occasions in the Socceroos final 23-man squad during the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers under then coach, Ange Postecoglou.

The 19-year-old comes in as an injury replacement for Jake Adelson, but will be absent for more than half of January with the U23s at the 2018 AFC Championship in China.

“We’ve brought Riley in as an injury replacement for Jake – seeing as we’ve got some good depth defensively – I was keen on getting a creative, attacking player," Merrick said

“He’s at one of the biggest clubs in the Belgian First Division and I think just being around that sort of environment after his last season (in the A-League) will only be of benefit.

“It’s disappointing not to have him available immediately, but this is the price you pay when you bring in a player of Riley’s quality.

“If anything, it will provide Riley with some important game time before he joins us in late-January for our run into the end of the season."

The Jets will officially lodge the transfer during the A-League’s January window.