Wellington Phoenix are reportedly poised to sign former Socceroos striker Joel Griffiths after the veteran cut ties with the Newcastle Jets today.

The 35-year-old accepted a payout from Newcastle as the Nathan Tinkler-owned club continues to unravel.

The World Game website reported that Griffiths was now expected to join the Phoenix until the end of the season and that coach Ernie Merrick viewed his "experience and know-how as a perfect foil for the likes of Nathan Burns and Roy Krishna."

Griffiths scored one goal in three internationals for Australia between 2005-08 and is a former Newcastle teammate of Phoenix captain Andrew Durante.

Griffiths won the Johnny Warren Medal as the A-League player of the year in 2007-08, as his 14 goals spurred the Jets to the championship.

He has scored three goals in 15 appearances this season but has been in limbo in the last few weeks after he and four other Jets players attempted to oust coach Phil Stubbins.

New Jets chief executive Mitchell Murphy said: "I arrived at the Jets at a time whereby the club had already decided to part ways with Joel. But I sincerely want to pay tribute to the valuable contribution he has made to the club. He's been an outstanding player for the Jets, but sometimes there are difficult circumstances in football. I wholeheartedly wish him all the very best for his future endeavours."

The Phoenix host Newcastle at the Hutt Recreation Ground on Sunday.