THE Queensland Reds appear likely to hang onto Test midfielder Samu Kerevi for another season despite recent links to a surprise move to the Brumbies in 2019.

Last week The Daily Telegraph reported that Kerevi, who is off contract with the Reds, was deep in talks with the Brumbies about a move to the Canberra club.

After securing co-captain Christian Lealiifano for another season and recruiting explosive Chiefs winger Toni Pulu on Tuesday, the Brumbies are eager to lock down a world class No 12 following the departure of Kyle Godwin to Connacht.

But in a huge relief for the Reds it appears Kerevi, 24, will stay put at Ballymore despite holding recent talks with Brumbies officials.

It’s understood that Kerevi — part of the Reds leadership team over the last two seasons — is intent on repaying the investment that Queensland has put into him as he progressed into the Wallabies ranks.

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One insider said that Kerevi is a “very loyal bloke.”

Sources have told foxsports.com.au that Kerevi is keen on signing a one year deal with the Reds, leaving open the possibility of a move to the Brumbies following next year’s World Cup in Japan.

With discarded Wallabies Quade Cooper and Karmichael Hunt still on the books until the end of 2019, the Reds aren’t in position to table a massive long term offer to Kerevi.

But securing the tackle shredding centre for another year would be a vote of confidence for Brad Thorn’s rebuilding Reds, one of the youngest squads in Super Rugby.

While Thorn has nurtured a powerful forward pack, the Reds struggled to cross the tryline in 2018.

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The Reds scored the third least tries (49) of any team this season with their attack hindered by a lack of experience and quality in key playmaking positions.

But Kerevi continued his rich vein of form throughout the year and was the Reds’ chief strike weapon.

Since debuting for the Wallabies in 2016, Kerevi has played 21 Tests and was Michael Cheika’s first choice outside centre during the June series against Ireland.

He is expected to miss the majority of the Rugby Championship after undergoing surgery on his injured bicep following the third Test against Ireland.