Melbourne Heart are edging closer to striking terms with Aussie football legend Harry Kewell.

Kewell is in Melbourne for the Spring Racing Carnival and exploring the prospect of resuming his career in the A-League.

The former Leeds United and Liverpool midfielder proved his fitness last season at Melbourne Victory and the prospect of seeing Kewell in his line-up is exciting Heart coach John Aloisi.

It's understood talks have progressed positively, with Aloisi and assistant manager Hayden Foxe, both former teammates of Kewell's, being kept up-to-speed on developments.

The idea Kewell would be intimidated by the prospect of signing for Melbourne Victory's great rivals is wide of the mark given the controversial manner of his move from Elland Road to Anfield nine years ago.

While searching for a club in England, Kewell has been supported by former Reds boss Rafa Benitez, who is convinced he should still be playing in the Premier League.