Wanted ... Nick Phipps played against the Waratahs just a week ago. Source: AAP
The future of Melbourne Rebels halfback Nick Phipps is shrouded in uncertainty amid claims the foundation star will join New South Wales Waratahs next season.
Phipps, 24, is rumoured to have signed with the Waratahs as speculation swirls that Wallaby No.9 Luke Burgess could join Melbourne.
Phipps is one of Australian rugby's great stories, rising from Sydney's third-grade competition to becoming Wallaby scrumhalf.
But his three-season tenure at Melbourne appears to be over.
Neither Melbourne nor Phipps is prepared to comment on speculation the 2011 player of the year will leave the Rebels.
Burgess, 28, is with French club Toulouse and would need to gain a release to join an Australian franchise.
It is understood he has been told by Wallaby coach Robbie Deans he remains in the mix for international selection - if he returns to Super Rugby.
Melbourne's retention and recruitment drive is a club priority, given revelations 80 per cent of NSW's list is off-contract at the end of this year. The Waratahs have sounded out several players from rival provinces.
While Melbourne is resigned to farewelling international recruits Gareth Delve and Ged Robinson, there are positive developments elsewhere.
James O'Connor and Kurtley Beale are believed to be keen to continue, and young locks Hugh Pyle and Cadeyrn Neville are understood to be close to extending current deals.
And former Irish schoolboys captain Tom Sexton has agreed to join the club for next season.
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