Panthers and Roosters circling Hayne

Sydney Roosters supremo Nick Politis and Penrith counterpart Phil Gould are set for a bidding war to land Jarryd Hayne’s signature should the former rugby league star cut short his NFL career.

Both NRL heavyweight leaders have confirmed to News Corp Australia they would bid for Hayne should the ex-Parramatta fullback call time on his fading NFL career with the San Francisco 49ers.

However, Gould and close friend Politis claim they don’t expect Hayne back any time soon.

“My understanding is that Jarryd will not be giving up on his NFL dreams,” Gould said.

“Nor should he. What he has achieved in 12 short months is nothing short of extraordinary. Our game should be so proud of Jarryd.

“If, at some time in the future, he decides to return to the NRL, rest assured Panthers will be in the queue to have a chat with him.”

The Roosters’ plan, according to Politis, is to play Blake Ferguson at fullback in 2016 with a view to easing rookie Latrell Mitchell into the position down the track.

“We don’t even know if Jarryd’s going to be available,” Politis said.

“Like Gus, we’re keeping an eye on it. We’d love to have him but so would a lot of other clubs.”

Politis gave Hayne a loan car from one of his automotive businesses when the former Eels star was last in Australia earlier this year, fuelling speculation he would join the Roosters if he returned from the NFL.

It’s believed Hayne will make a decision on his future when he returns to Australia for Christmas.