'He will be wanted here': Wayne Bennett weighs in on 'cloudy' Brandon Smith contract saga

Wayne Bennett has spoken about the looming arrival of Brandon Smith and says the unwanted Roosters star will be "welcomed with open arms" at the Rabbitohs.

The polarising star was with teammates early in the week at Angus Crichton's wedding, with the Chooks having a bye in round 10 and given a few days off.

However, on his way home from Crichton's big day, Smith learned of the potential for him to move to South Sydney earlier than anticipated.

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The 28-year-old was meant to join the Rabbitohs next season on a two-year deal, but all signs now point towards that coming as early as this weekend.

Speaking on The Bye Round Podcast, the premiership-winning hooker was asked if he had played his last game at the Roosters and confirmed the sticking point between the two rival clubs was a reported $40,000 on his contract for this year.

"It definitely looks that way from the articles and conversations I've had," Smith said.

"Everything I have read so far, it doesn't seem like I'm very wanted. 

"It was a very good time, I enjoyed myself [at the wedding] - but obviously the elephant in the room, on the way back I got some strange news.

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"It was a bit of a strange one. Something has happened overnight and my manager rang me this morning and told me. Nothing is official yet and we've still got a lot of things to sort out beforehand, like where my 40k is gonna go.

"It's a bit of a surprise, but I'll have more details for you tomorrow."

Smith was a marquee signing for the Tricolours when he moved from the Storm two years ago, but has been limited to just 41 games due to injuries.

The dummy-half confirmed he spoke to Trent Robinson on Wednesday evening and while his departure appears imminent, Smith will still need to attend training.

Ahead of the side's round 10 game, Bennett was asked about the situation and when he anticipated South Sydney would have an answer on their big recruit.

"It is a bit cloudy at the moment, but the bottom line is we're prepared for him to come here in the very near future," the legendary coach said.

"We're looking forward to that and hopefully we can get it sorted out over the weekend so Brandon will know where he stands. I think the deal is sorted, it's just the paperwork.

"He will be wanted here - we'll welcome him with open arms."

Quizzed about whether he could get the best out of Smith, who is still coming back from a serious knee injury, Bennett moved to temper expectations right out of the gate.

"Probably not - he's had a major operation and rehab on his knee," Bennett said.

"They take a little while to come back from, but I'm pleased he's coming here.

"I won't be pushing him too hard this year, because I know the consequences of those knee injuries. He's got to get his confidence back and that will take a little time." 

Souths will host the Broncos on Friday night at Accor Stadium.