THERE is increasing confidence that Brett Emerton will become Sydney FC's new marquee signing - either before the transfer window closes next week or in January.

Though Sydney has been careful to avoid a direct approach to Emerton's English club, Blackburn, as he is still under contract for this season, it is believed his representatives are seeking to earn Emerton a release.

Blackburn's new owners are keen to trim the wage bill, though Emerton has not yet been told he can leave.

It had been hoped a settlement could be negotiated that would free him to return to the A-League, though Blackburn's shaky start to the season has muddied those waters.

Sydney will not pay a transfer fee, but sources say the club is very confident of landing Emerton.

Sydney chief executive Dirk Melton admitted the club would be keen to talk in principle. "We'd be mad not to want him," he said.

The Herald Sun revealed in May that Sydney had held talks with Emerton about his future, with the Socceroo keen to return to his roots.

Originally published as Emerton closer to signing with Sydney