The 20-year-old has been in superb form this season - with the Brumbies having seen the Australia Under-20s international as the long-term successor to George Smith.

However Hooper, who made his debut for the Canberra club in 2010 against the Chiefs, has rejected the chance to extend his stay.

The Melbourne Rebels had also been keen on signing Hooper, but the Sydney-born openside has instead opted to sign for the Waratahs.

The Brumbies could now make a move for David Pocock to fill the No.7 shirt - with the Australia poacher out of contract with the Force at the end of the season.