Hanley, who has signed a two-year contract, will return to Sydney to tie up his business interests before taking up the reins at Saints in December.

BBC: News | Rugby League | Hanley lands Saints job

Newly relegated Essex also hope to tie England all-rounder Ravi Bopara to a new contract.

BBC: Owais Shah confirms contract negotiations with Essex

And with Kinnear's contract expiring at the end of the season anyway, Llambias said the club were keen to tie Shearer down to a long-term deal.

BBC: Shearer holds talks with Magpies