The Sydney Roosters are now favoured to win the signature of axed Wallabies star Lote Tuqiri who is set to return to rugby league.

Tuqiri, who is involved in court action against the Australian Rugby Union for alleged unfair dismissal after having his contract terminated, appears happy to take a paycut to return to the NRL.

The West Tigers look to have dropped out of the race for Tuqiri after his handlers signalled little interest in club, allegedly snubbing their phone calls.

It seems the Roosters will be able to up the ante for Tuqiri by cutting Setaimata Sa with the utility's significant contract freeing up the money needed.