The former All Black was training at Logan Park yesterday ready to bolster the Highlanders' troubled first five-eighth ranks but has still not signed on the dotted line.
Highlanders management could not confirm Delany had officially joined the squad as issues such as insurance had to be worked through.
Delany played with the Chiefs last year and then left to join the Panasonic Wild Knights in Japan.
He finished up for the year with the Japanese club side, coached by Tony Brown, last month, and returned for New Zealand for a bit of down time.
That was when the Highlanders came calling, looking for a replacement in the No 10 jersey after both Colin Slade (leg) and Lima Sopoaga (shoulder) were knocked out of the competition due to injury.
Delany (29) will be a great acquisition for the Highlanders, if he does sign, although it appears more of a when than an if.
With the cupboard bare of quality and experienced first five-eighths in New Zealand, Delany's experience and ability will be an asset.
Chris Noakes is the only specialist No 10 in the squad and, with 10 games still to go until the end of the season, he would carry a heavy burden.
Delany played one test for the All Blacks, against Italy in Milan in 2009, and also played against the Barbarians at the end of that tour.
He had a long provincial career with Bay of Plenty and also at the Chiefs, although he was often forced to play second fiddle to Stephen Donald at the Hamilton-based franchise.
He previously played for the Highlanders in 2008, making 10 appearances.
The Highlanders take on the Stormers this Saturday night in a top-of-the-table clash at Forsyth Barr Stadium.
