Even when the parties agreed, the ARLC refused to initially register the deal, with then-salary cap auditor Ian Schubert heavily criticised for his handling of the fiasco. While the NRL dithered, the Wallabies snuck under their guard and signed Folau, who has become the most valuable and marketable star in Australian rugby.

However, the blue and golds are likely to have more assistance from the NRL if Folau genuinely wants to return to the 13-man code. To ensure the best players are attracted and retained, the NRL has announced a revolutionary change to the salary cap which allows chief executive Dave Smith the discretion to centrally contract a once-in-a-generation player. Melbourne are hoping former Queensland and Australian fullback Karmichael Hunt, whose contract with the Gold Coast Suns expires at the end of the season, fits that description. There's no doubt that Folau qualifies but it remains to be seen if he will wait until after the World Cup before entertaining other opportunities.

The Eels have little room to move in their salary cap for next year and would need to offload on a number of contracted players – as well as hope for NRL assistance – to make their ambition a reality.

In their favour is the fact that Folau's younger brother, John, is at the club. He recently represented Queensland in the NYC Origin encounter against the Blues and is contracted for next year. Ironically, the salary cap – the second-tier variety – also prevented him from playing first grade for the Eels last year. However, if William Hopoate is required for NSW duty during the Origin series, John Folau is a strong chance of belatedly making his NRL debut.

"I think I'm ready now if I get an opportunity," John Folau said before the recent interstate under-20s fixture.