The New Zealand Rugby Union has dangled large carrots for both McCaw and Crusaders stablemate Daniel Carter to stick with New Zealand rugby, beyond the World Cup.
NZRU chief executive Steve Tew says the union expects a decision from the inspirational No 7 soon, and said he was close to confirming he would stay, The New Zealand Herald reports.
"Richie's very close to confirming that he'll stay," Tew told Radio Sport today.
"We're giving him the space and time, and I think (we're) giving Dan the same courtesy. We will certainly be looking for a decision from them sooner rather than later."
Last month, the Herald on Sunday reported that the duo have been offered four-year contracts to stay in New Zealand with unprecedented levels of flexibility and payment.
According to the paper, both players will be able to take sabbaticals, either playing or non-playing, will be allowed to leave New Zealand at any stage of the contract and will pick up around $850,000 a season.
