George Smith has been in excellent form for the Brumbies © Getty Images

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George Smith may be edging closer to a return for Australia against the British & Irish Lions in June as ties between his Japanese club and the Brumbies appear to be strengthening.

The Brumbies may look to extend the flanker's loan deal with Suntory Sungoliaths should they remain in finals contention, paving the way for the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) to push for his reinstatement to the Wallabies fold.

As reported in The Canberra Times, the ACT-based franchise is assisting with the development of three Suntory coaches this week, including former New South Wales Waratahs star Peter Hewat, a move that can only forge closer bonds between the clubs.

Smith's loan deal is set to expire at the end of May and while Brumbies coach Jake White remains respectful of Suntory's contract, the 32-year-old has become a vital element in the Brumbies engine and has played a huge role in the their stellar season start, which sees them lead the Australian conference and the Super Rugby table.

His presence has become even more valuable after a season-ending injury to Wallabies captain David Pocock.

With the Lions tour sandwiched between the Super Rugby regular season and finals series, an extension to Smith's contract may act as a catalyst for the ARU to become involved.

Hewat played with Smith for two seasons in Japan and says the fact that he's experienced new styles has only increased his potency in Super Rugby.

''He's been the best player in Japan the last couple of years and I think he's grown as a player,'' Hewat said. ''Being over in Japan, he's been to France and he's experienced different styles. 'He's matured as a player and is probably in the best shape of his career so it didn't surprise me at all with the way he didn't miss a beat coming back to Super Rugby. He's just a freaky player.''

Suntory's visit to the capital came at the request of Eddie Jones, and the former mentor to both sides has done much to bring the clubs closer together during the past two seasons.