PIRATES are closing on the signing of Linus Sundstrom – after the Polish authorities lifted the controversial three-league rule.

The Swedish star had been prevented from taking a deal in Britain as riders in Poland's top flight – the Ekstraliga – could only race in two other leagues.

Poole asset Sundstrom has contracts in place with Ekstraliga club Gorzow and Swedish sides Masarna and Piraterna for the upcoming season.

However, now the regulation has been lifted, he requires only the approval of Gorzow to allow his Wimborne Road move to go ahead.

Pirates boss Matt Ford told the Daily Echo: "This is another barrier overcome.

"The final part of the jigsaw is that riders who this has an impact on must get their Polish clubs to acknowledge the change and once that's done, we will be able to secure Linus's services.

"I don't expect it to be an issue for him. He informed Gorzow before that he would like to ride for Poole and I know his mechanic has been in touch with the Gorzow owners.

"Fingers crossed that things can be finalised in the next week."

Sundstrom has already agreed terms ahead of his proposed move. His expected arrival is pivotal to Ford's team building and is likely to pave the way for Puddletown charger James Shanes to complete the side at reserve.