THIS is the exclusive photograph that will send a shiver through rugby league.

It is Cronulla, NSW and Australian forward Andrew Fifita watching the NSW Waratahs play a Super Rugby game yesterday at Allianz Stadium.

He was spotted sitting near Manly Marlins coach and former league star Phil Blake and sandwiched between business associates Ben Johnston and Greg Willett.

The Australian Rugby Union is keenly pursuing Fifita, who comes off contract at Cronulla after this season.

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Maybe watching Israel Folau and Kurtley Beale - and thinking they could be future teammates - appealed to Fifita yesterday.

And the lure of playing the 2015 World Cup could also entice the 24-year-old to follow Sam Burgess to rugby union.

Fifita is also aware NRL rivals Souths and Sydney Roosters - along with his current club Cronulla - have expressed strong interest.

The Roosters have money in their cap through the impending departure of Sonny Bill Williams, while Souths have room to move through Burgess’s departure.

Another rugby league identity at the Waratahs-Western Force game yesterday was NSW coach Laurie Daley, who likes to keep an eye on his rival code.

Daley made a spirited plea for Fifita to stay in rugby league, saying: “Andrew has become one of the best forwards in the game.

“He has a huge future in our game and I know his heart lies in rugby league.

“I’d support any decision he makes but I really hope he remains in the NRL.

“He was a big part of the NSW State of Origin campaign last year and hopefully he will be there at the forefront again in 2014.

“There is no reason why Andrew cannot be a long-term representative player in rugby league.’’

Wherever Fifita plays next season, one thing is for sure - he will become a very well-paid football player.

He would be looking to sign a four-year deal worth about $2 million.

Cronulla teammates hope he will stay loyal, although Fifita did meet with Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie before Christmas. He also spoke with Waratahs coach Michael Cheika.

Fifita recently told News Ltd: “I would really love to stay at the Sharks, but other NRL clubs are keen. Whatever my future holds I don’t know.

“I haven’t done anything with rugby. I had dinner once (with McKenzie) and there was no pressure. He just let me know, ‘The door is open for you if you want to chase another dream and be a dual international’.’’

Cronulla has worked miracles with Fifita, who arrived at Shark Park from Wests Tigers as a poor trainer.

He is now averaging 52 minutes a game and sometimes plays the entire 80 minutes. Fifita is running for around 150 metres a match.

Cronulla hope Fifita, 24, will re-sign before the start of the NRL season.