Auckland Rugby League (ARL) will be the new owners of the Warriors, according to a report.
NZME reports the ARL, represented by the Carlaw Park Heritage Trust, has agreed on a sale and purchase agreement with Eric Watson and his representatives - with a formal announcement expected later this week.
Mr Watson has also been in discussions with former Hawaiian politician Richard Fale, head of Pacific Sports International, who reportedly offered $24 million for the club.
Mr Fale's group, which includes former NFL players, had plans to bring NRL games to the US and make upgrades at Mt Smart Stadium.
The ARL's offer is understandably less than Mr Fale's $24m bid, but the overall package and the simplicity of the ARL deal appeals to Watson.
The 58-year-old Mr Watson bought the franchise in 2000 from a consortium including Tainui and former Kiwis coach Graham Lowe.
ARL chairman Cameron McGregor declined to comment when contacted by NZME.
Newshub.
