Wayne Bennett will be summoned for crunch talks with Brisbane Broncos chiefs this weekend as the NRL giants seek to force through the veteran mentor's exit to trigger Anthony Seibold's immediate arrival from South Sydney.
The two coaches signed up for a blockbuster swap deal last month, with Bennett agreeing to join the Rabbitohs for 2020 on a two-year deal.
But the unusual situation, which has sparked fears over a conflict of interest, has led to speculation an exchange could be struck as early as this week, enabling both men to take over at their new clubs 12 months ahead of schedule.
However Bennett, who has been in England in recent weeks in his role as their national team coach and only returned home on Wednesday, has repeatedly stated he intends to see out his Broncos contract until his move.
Seibold has also stated he plans to remain at the Rabbitohs until the end of next season, but reports suggest Broncos chairman Karl Morris is ready to call in Bennett and thrash out terms of his early departure from Red Hill.
Bennett, though, has refused to say whether he's set for an imminent axing and says he intends to carry on in his Broncos post until told otherwise.
"I'll be honouring my contract by going to training," the 68-year-old, who has won six titles at Brisbane, told the Courier Mail.
"I'm not commenting any further other than to say I'll be at training."
Skipper Darius Boyd insisted Brisbane's players will cope whatever transpires at the club in the next few days.
"I would like to see Wayne finish next year on good terms, but sometimes decisions are made and life goes on," Boyd said.
"What happens now is way above my head.:
