ARGUABLY the biggest club in the A-League is closing in on the signature of a current Socceroo for next season despite the finals series nearing.

Fox Sports understands that Melbourne Victory is in advanced negotiations with Perth Glory star Rhys Williams over a move to the club for the start of next season.

However, Sydney FC – who have pursued the 14 time Socceroo all season – remain in the mix and have not yet given up the fight for his services.

Western Sydney Wanderers, Newcastle Jets and Glory - with a renewed bid - are all understood to have also made a play for the talented defender.

The 28-year-old will be out of contract in the west at the end of this season following a chequered first campaign back in Australia.

Rhys Williams. Source: Getty Images

Williams and the Glory hierarchy were at loggerheads through the middle part of the season, which saw the classy defender sidelined for several weeks.

An injury crisis brought about his return to the side and immediate return to close to his best form, prompting Ange Postecoglou to call him up for the recent World Cup qualifiers against Iraq and the UAE.

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Williams did not feature in those games but is a firm part of the national team bosses plans and looming as a strong chance to be involved against Saudi Arabia on June 8.

By that stage, Williams may already be announced as a Melbourne Victory player with a deal to the Victorian giants – which has defenders Alan Baro and Nick Ansell coming off contract - looking promising, barring any late hitches.

The move would be a blow for the Glory who brought the West Aussie back home for the start of the season amid much fanfare.