New Zealand hooker Issac Luke has been linked with a stunning move to the Warriors next season and is set to seek a release from South Sydney.

Luke, who played for the Kiwis in last Sunday's 26-12 defeat of Australia, is believed to have told Rabbitohs officials he wants to return to New Zealand for family reasons and talks with the Warriors are so advanced a deal could be announced in days.

Proud New Zealander: Issac Luke leads the haka after the Kiwis beat Australia on Sunday. Credit:Getty Images

It is understood the NRL premiers won't stand in Luke's way given his service to Souths since joining the club from Canterbury in 2007.

The signing of Luke would be a massive boost for the Warriors after recently snaring Sydney Roosters fullback Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and represents the biggest recruitment coup for the club since luring Steve Price and Ruben Wiki across the Tasman in 2005.