O'Connor to join the Wallabies in South Africa

James O'Connor is set to link up with the Wallabies to train with the national side for the second week in a row.

The utility back will head to Johannesburg this week to train with the Wallabies after winger Marika Koroibete withdrew from the squad to remained in Melbourne for the birth of his second child.

O'Connor is not officially part of the squad and has joined the side as a group as a train-on member as he needs a Super Rugby deal to be eligible to play for the Wallabies.

The 44-Test utility is understood to be close to confirming a Super Rugby deal with the Reds to make him eligible for a Test return. O'Connor was released from the final season of his contract with English club Sale last week.

Should he sign the deal he would be available immediately and could play the Wallabies first game of the year against the Springboks on July 21.

O'Connor won't be the only addition to the group partway through this week with injured backrower David Pocock also travelling to Johannesburg to continue his rehabilitation with the squad.