Cronulla are set to announce they have re-signed fullback Ben Barba, however it’s understood he may not be able to begin training with the defending NRL premiers for upto four months.

The NRL would have to be convinced that Barba has been successfully rehabilitated since he entered his second positive test to illicit drugs at the end of last season before registering the contract, after he was released by the Sharks in November.

It’s also understood he would not be able to recommence training with the team until within weeks of his 12-week ban ending, regardless of when the contract is registered.