The presence of the blockbusting 23-year-old outside back would be a massive boost for the Crusaders, who have been an ever-present in the Super Rugby playoffs for the past five seasons but have lacked the finishing power to go all the way since winning the last of their seven titles in 2008.
Not only will Carter's sabbatical leave the franchise without the presence of one of the best first-fives in the world, centre Robbie Fruean's withdrawal from the team this season due to heart surgery means they also lack size in their backline.
Tom Marshall was a good performer on the right wing for the Crusaders this season - making a good fist of replacing Sean Maitland following his departure for Scotland. But he also lacks size and feels his best position is at fullback - the major reason why he is moving to the defending champion Chiefs. Savea will link with fellow wing Zac Guildford and fullback Israel Dagg for Todd Blackadder's outfit, and is likely to be joining Hurricanes teammate and midfielder Rey Lee-Lo, whom the Crusaders are also chasing hard.
It is understood that the Crusaders were also chasing Hurricanes wing Alapati Leiua, but the Samoa player turned them down in favour of staying in the capital.
While no one from the franchise would confirm Savea's signing, it is understood that they are close to confirming it. The impending announcement will be a huge blow to the Hurricanes, who have supported Savea since his court appearance for an alleged domestic violence incident in April.
Savea, the IRB's junior player of the year in 2010, burst on to the test scene last year when scoring three tries on debut against Ireland at Eden Park. He has carried on his incredible try-scoring rate since, dotting down 13 times in 13 tests.
The Crusaders this season got by without making any big signings - the addition of the 1.9m, 104kg Savea suggesting they have realised they need some heavy artillery in order to go all the way following their exit to the Chiefs in Hamilton - a repeat of last year's semifinal result.
Colin Slade will re-join them from the Highlanders as a replacement for Carter, with Tom Taylor continuing his progression by putting in an assured performance on debut for the All Blacks against Australia last weekend.
In what is yet another blow for the Hurricanes, Taranaki will place their allegiance with the Chiefs from next season.
