On the day the Uruguayan posted a heartfelt farewell letter to the Melbourne City “family” on social medial, Sage played down the assumption that the 31-year-old was on his way west for next season.

It’s understood that a mouthwatering $1.2 million contract is on the table awaiting the striker’s signature.

However, Sage - whose table-topping team are on course for the Premiers’ Plate - isn’t counting his chickens 24 hours on from Fornaroli accepting a City severance package after his spectacular fallout with coach Warren Joyce.

“Bruno Fornaroli has just parted ways with City and (it’s well known that) Tony Popovic showed interest,” he said.

“Agents are talking to management and who knows what will happen.

“He’s obviously got lots and lots of different offers on the table (from elsewhere).

“Until you get a signed contract from a player it’s not a done deal.

“You know what happens in football, anything is possible.

“We showed interest ... it’s up to him now to show interest in Perth Glory.

“If it was concluded we would’ve made an announcement.”

Sydney FC, for one, are following developments closely, having failed to snare Fornaroli in the off-season - even though the ex-City marquee wanted to join the Sky Blues.

Despite being eight points clear of second-placed Sydney on the A-League ladder with seven games left, Sage is equally cautious over any premature title celebrations.

“It’s way too early for that ... three of our next four games are away and the home one is against (defending champions) Melbourne Victory,” he added.

“But It’s a reflection on how the club is tracking when you’re disappointed with an away point (against Western Sydney Wanderers last weekend).”

He is, though, hopeful of preserving the core of his squad for next season, with the added lustre of an AFC Champions League campaign to look forward to.

“Players want success and if they believe in Popovic they will stay. He’s going to go through that process of re-signing over the next couple of months,” he said.

The likes of Jason Davidson, Joel Chianese, Andy Keogh and Jake Brimmer are coming off contract, while Socceroos attacker Chris Ikonomides harbours hopes of a return to Europe.

Sage insisted the club wouldn’t stand in his way if a “big offer from Europe comes along”.

“That’s his goal, his dream,” he added. “People leave for various reasons and you always have to be looking for various players to replace them.”