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Emile 'wider contribution' Heskey has finally found a new home for his unusual talents - in Australia.

Reports are circulating that the big fella will be following in the footsteps of Italian great Alessandro del Piero and enjoying a career Indian summer Down Under.

(Image: Getty)

Aussie club Newcastle are understood to be on the verge of signing the former England striker. The former Liverpool forward, who played in three World Cups - count 'em! - left Aston Villa at the end of last season and has been looking for a new deal since.

It is reported that Newcastle Jets CEO Robbie Middleby and Troy Palmer, CEO of the Hunter Sports Group that owns the club, have met Heskey a one-year deal is in the offing.

Medical notwithstanding, he is expected to join Gary van Egmond's squad in time for the A-League season - and could face Del Piero's Sydney FC in round two.

The Jets have declined to comment, and the Aussie FA would have to sanction the move, but it's a formality.

Heskey, 34, commented recently: "I feel as fit and hungry as I have done in a long time and have been training everyday throughout the summer. As has been reported, I did receive a number of offers during the transfer window but didn't feel like any of them were the right opportunity for me at that time."

Fair dinkum, big man!