Phoenix move for Porter

New Zealanders try for Aussie

Last updated: 14th May 2008

Joel Porter Hartlepool

Porter heading down under?

Wellington Phoenix chief executive Tony Pignata insists the New Zealand club are desperately trying to lure Hartlepool striker Joel Porter away from Victoria Park.

Pools triggered a clause to give the 29-year-old a new one-year deal last week, but Phoenix have now claimed they have reached an agreement to sign the Australian.

"We're trying to see whether there can be any options," said Pignata.

"He wants to come, he's agreed to terms and we're happy to move forward. He wants to move and accepted an offer on his house, so it's a messy one.

"We haven't moved any closer but we're still tapping away."