Ulster look unlikely to request a special exemption contract extension for Big Nick.
Les Kiss may be about to land another World Cup winner for the northern province.
With Ruan Pienaar already on the books, and John Afoa a past player, All Blacks back-row Victor Vito could be about to join an elite group.
Williams is set to move on, next summer, after his three-season stint with the province. He won PRO12 player of the year for 2013/14 but last season was condensed by injuries and suspensions.
Ulster will have room, then, for an Non-Irish Qualified player and, according to The Irish Independent, Vito is top of their wish-list.
Look at his bicep. Look!The 28-year-old is currently with the Hurricanes but is known to be eager to explore a move abroad as he would be, at best, an outside bet for World Cup 2019. He is set to represent his country in Sevens at Rio 2016, along with Sonny Bill Williams and Liam Messam.
Stade Francais are also said to be keen but there will be a host of French and English clubs also expressing interest.
Vito made his All Blacks debut in 2010 and has represented his country on 33 occasions. He started the 42-10 New Zealand win over Ireland in June 2012.
