Sydney FC look set to suffer a blow for their A-League championship defence with midfield general Josh Brillante on the verge of joining Melbourne City.
The 26-year-old's future in the Harbour City has been in doubt since a move to K-League side Pohang Steelers fell through in March.
The Sky Blues appeared confident to retain the five-time Socceroo after he returned to play a crucial part in their run to the championship, but City have managed to nab him with deal around $500,000-a-season, according to The World Game.
Brillante's expected defection completes a busy week for the Sky Blues in the transfer market, with the club announcing the signings of Alexander Baumjohann and Ryan McGowan.