AUSTRALIAN sensation Andrew Symonds could be on his way back to Old Trafford next season as one of Lancashire's overseas signings.

The big Queenslander has already left the North-west in preparation for the ICC Super Series - but it seems that he will be back to further his impressive Red Rose career.

"I have really enjoyed the way that I have been accepted into the club. These are a really easy group of blokes to get on with and it makes cricket a lot more fun when it's like that," he said.

If Symonds signs on at Old Trafford, it will only be for the first half of the season until another possible signing, Sri Lankan spin king Muttiah Muralitharan, completes his international commitments against England.

If that is to be the case, Lancs will have two fearsome Aussies at the forefront of their batting order.

With the Australian team having a fairly quiet summer, Brad Hodge, who is into the final year of a two year contract, should be available for the whole season, and Symonds should help him dominate attacks - especially if he is around for Twenty20.

It promises to be the one of the most important season's in Lancashire's history, due to the fact that they are in the top division of both forms of the game.

The main aim will be the newly named Liverpool Victoria County Championship title - and having three quality international stars should be a major boost.

Lancashire have also been linked with Kent star Robert Key - but the name featuring the most when talking of domestic captures seems to be Derbyshire keeper Luke Sutton.

There were thoughts that he may look to take a year out of the game to do some charity work abroad. However, he has decided against that and will choose between Warwickshire and Lancashire.