The 27-year-old was banned from rugby league for taking and trafficking performance enhancing drugs in 2013 which is set to expire in August.

The former Raiders and Panthers back will start training with the NRL club in August.

“We haven’t said yes or no but he’s based in Melbourne and we’ll definitely have a chat,” Storm football manager Frank Ponissi told The Daily Telegraph.

“Look, we’re probably more looking at him for 2018 but you never say never.”

Earl is now living in Melbourne and has set up a string of businesses across the city.

"It's been good in a way, getting out of the footy bubble and having to dive into so many other things. It forced me to mature and grow up a lot," Earl told fairfax Media last year.

"Melbourne would be great with my business down here, but the Raiders fans have been unbelievable.

"I openly support them on social media and that's because I'm still mates with a lot of the boys. I've got a big soft spot for them, but beggars can't be choosers and I'll just be looking for a start.

"Footy's still the main goal, divided between my time with business ventures, but just under a year to go and we'll see where I end up.

"I'll definitely be in the best shape of my life, I've put on a few kilos so it'll be good. It is hard, it's a lot different training by yourself."