Wests Tigers have come to terms with Michael Maguire on a three-year, $2.5 million deal that will come into effect once the club resolves its standoff with Ivan Cleary.

The Tigers have been inundated with expressions of interest once it emerged Cleary was eyeing a return to the foot of the mountains, but only Maguire and Wayne Bennett were considered. Bennett is poised to join South Sydney in a coach swap for Anthony Seibold, paving the way for Maguire to join the joint-venture outfit.

In demand: Michael Maguire's coaching stocks are on the rise after guiding New Zealand to victory over Australia. Credit:NRL Photos

Tigers officials believe Maguire is a better long-term proposition than Bennett, who wouldn’t have been considered for a deal any longer than two seasons. Given the constant changing of clipboard holders at the club – Cleary will be the latest to move on in quick succession following the departures of Jason Taylor, Mick Potter and Tim Sheens – the Tigers hierarchy was keen to lock in a big-name coach for an extended period to provide stability.

Maguire’s first preference was the Brisbane job that will be vacated by Bennett at the end of 2019 and he was one of four candidates interviewed for the position. However, the plum role will go to South Sydney coach Anthony Seibold in what is likely to be a straight swap with Bennett.