MELBOURNE Victory's stability could be the factor that wins it Harry Kewell's signature.

Victory officials are understood to be confident of securing Kewell.

The club has been scouting for houses in Melbourne for him.

In an unprecedented deal, Kewell, 32, would:

DRAW no base salary; and

POCKET 80 per cent of any increase from next season's commercial revenue (gate, merchandise, membership and sponsorship).

The deal could make him the highest earner in A-League history, but if it backfires he runs the risk of banking a relative pittance directly from soccer.

Kewell would not have considered returning to Australia so soon had Socceroos coach Holger Osieck not given his blessing this month.

Sydney FC and Newcastle Jets are believed to have made bids for Kewell, one of which was $4 million.



But Victory has made the biggest impression with him since talks started 18 months ago.

Kewell would not discuss specific clubs but was confident he would still be representing the Socceroos at the 2015 Asian Cup.

"There are some offers on the table from Australia, but who knows," said Kewell, who is holidaying overseas with his family.

"I have spent the last three years away from my family (in Turkey) and I would prefer not to do that again. So whatever happens, that will be a major consideration."

Kewell has received offers from Britain, Spain, Germany, Japan, Korea, the US and the Middle East.

The most lucrative are from the Middle East, but the Spanish offer is the overseas one that most appeals.

Chaos at Galatasaray this season played into Victory's hands.



Kewell, disillusioned as the Turkish giant sacked three coaches, now places greater emphasis on club stability.

Victory ticks that box. Newcastle is a way behind and Sydney in disarray.

Originally published as Victory leads in Kewell pursuit