Former Wallabies skipper James Horwill is understood to be on the verge of signing a deal that will see him join English Premiership club Harlequins after next year's World Cup, according to a report in The Mail on Sunday.

The Queensland second-rower is believed to have been offered £300,000 ($550,000) per season to leave Brisbane and move to Twickenham.

Former Wallabies skipper James Horwill has started just two Test matches so far this season. Credit:Getty Images

Horwill has played 56 times for Australia, including 16 as captain, but has started only two Tests this year with former Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie preferring Rob Simmons, Sam Carter and Will Skelton. He was the skipper of the Wallabies at the 2011 World Cup but has struggled to capture top form after a serious hamstring injury ruled him out of the entire 2012 international season.

Since that injury the Wallabies have employed seven other captains and three coaches as the side has struggled for stability at the top.

Current vice-captain Adam Ashley-Cooper indicated a fortnight ago that he will leave Australian rugby after the World Cup next October while John Eales medallist Israel Folau's current contract expires at the same time and is expected to field big offers from French Top 14 and National Rugby League clubs .

Former All Blacks five-eighth Nick Evans is Harlequins' other marquee player.

Fairfax Media