WARRINGTON Wolves are continuing to attempt to attract Australian superstar Allan Langer to Wilderspool.

Wolves coach Darryl Van de Velde has spoken to the retired scrum half again this week about a career finale with Warrington but as the GUARDIAN went to press he was still to accept a deal.

Van de Velde said his contract offer to Langer was firm and would not be increased as he is determined to stick to the budget he has to work with.

Other clubs, including British ones, have made offers to the 33-year-old ex-Brisbane Broncos and Australia skipper who has made 28 Test appearances for his country.

Van de Velde says: "I am still optimistic he will join us. However, the longer negotiations continue the more I will become concerned.

"He is trying to get the best deal for him and his family and I understand that."

There is speculation that Wigan have joined the hunt for Langer. Even though they have Tony Smith, Gavin Clinch and Chris Chester in the half-backs zone Wigan are known to be looking to strengthen further in this department and have also been linked to St. Helens' Sean Long.

Warrington have been chasing Langer, a friend of Van de Velde's, for six weeks and the Wolves' interest in him was leaked out in Australia last week.

The Wolves have already shocked the rugby world down under by recruiting Brisbane's captain and prop forward Andrew Gee for the 2000 campaign but it looks like they have a waiting game to see if Van de Velde has pulled off a double coup.

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