Phoenix had been hopeful of landing Aussie striker Porter ahead of the current campaign with the forward reportedly keen to make the switch.

However, English third tier club Hartlepool decided to take up the option of an extra year on the player, effectively scuppering Wellington's bid.

A-League new boys United are now in pole position to land Porter, albeit they are not officially able to open negotiations until January 1.

Coach Bleiberg revealed before heading off on his recruitment drive in South America and Europe that he would be taking in Hartlepool's match with Yeovil Town this weekend.

It leaves Phoenix wondering 'what might have been' - especially with the club having already lost one striker to Bleiberg's outfit.

Wellington CEO Tony Pignata told au.fourfourtwo.com: "We were very keen to bring Joel here and I know he was keen to come as well.

"In the end Hartlepool decided they wanted to keep him for a further year and it was obviously disappointing for us.

"I would have thought he is now close to agreeing something with the Gold Coast.

"I think a Shane Smeltz-Joel Porter attack would have been an exciting partnership."

As it is it looks likely that the pair will form a partnership next season, but in Queensland rather than New Zealand.

However, Pignata said the search for a fresh striker was ongoing. He said: "We've got feelers out there."