Talatau Amone could be given the chance to press his case for an NRL return on the World Cup stage, with talks under way to see if the former St George Illawarra half can be cleared to play for Tonga.

AAP understands International Rugby League officials have reached out to the NRL to query Amone's availability, following his impressive return in the Queensland Cup.

Tonga have also made inquiries and are monitoring the situation closely, with the 24-year-old every chance of being part of their plans if cleared.

Amone last played NRL for St George Illawarra in 2023, before being deregistered following a conviction for an assault involving a hammer.

He was ordered to serve an intensive correction order in the community, bringing a halt to his 51-game NRL career.

But Amone has now scored three tries and set up eight in five games for Wynnum-Manly in the Queensland Cup.

That form has prompted one NRL club official to privately declare Amone would walk straight into a No.6 jersey, after he set up four tries and six line-breaks in his first game alone.

Tonga have also watched his form closely, after the former Dragon was part of their most recent World Cup squad in 2022.

The Queensland Rugby League liaised with the NRL's integrity unit before clearing his Wynnum-Manly return, with Amone allowed to play in State Cup competitions.

But AAP understands Amone remains precluded from holding an NRL contract until at least February, when a community corrections order for a separate matter ends.

The half is also working through programs with Wynnum-Manly, as he attempts to get his career back on track.

The ARL Commission is effectively organising this year's World Cup, prompting IRL chair Troy Grant to reach out to ARLC counterpart Peter V'landys to seek clarity on Amone's status.

Legal advice is being sought on the matter, with an outcome expected shortly. All parties are working towards Amone playing in the tournament.

Players need not hold an NRL contract to play in the event, but Amone's current restrictions have created a grey area.

Tonga coach Kristian Woolf used a makeshift five-eighth in Isaiah Iongi next to Dolphins star Isaya Katoa in last year's Pacific Cup.

Former Warriors and Wests Tigers livewire Tuimoala Lolohea is another option from the Super League, having last played for Tonga in 2024.

But Tonga have kept a close watch on Amone's strong early form for Wynnum-Manly, and he is believed to be in consideration.

A recognised five-eighth would serve Tonga well in the tournament, given they possess one of the game's most damaging forward packs, can strike out wide and the ever-improving Katoa at halfback.

Selection would also act as a massive boost for Amone, who is keen to return to the NRL after not playing on the big stage for more than three years.

Amone last played Tests for Tonga as a 20-year-old in the 2022 World Cup, where an inexperienced Katoa and Lolohea played in the halves.

Australian Associated Press