Lateral Recruiting in HK

Hi this is my first time posting~

I interned at HSBC/Nomura/Macquarie HK IBD industry team and signed return offer, but want to go to top 3 BB IBD in HK eventually (i.e. GS/MS/JP) for more pure IB experience and more/better exposure as juniors. I worked very hard in summer and have good internship exposure which is comparable to BB SA's (high profile deals in the industry and good involvement). But I missed the formal BB ft application in the past fall semester for some reason.

I am currently considering applying for GS/MS/JP SA (I know there are still vacancies at one of them although formal process has ended...but really not sure about their ft openings), or moving via lateral recruiting after one year at HSBC/Nomura/Macquarie. I've read through most of the threads here about lateral hiring, but I'm really keen to know how it is working in HK (esp. for top 3 BBs), like is it mostly done by networking/referral or formal experienced hire process, and how difficult it is, etc. I've seen people from Linkedin who did so successfully but really want to know more details. Anyone in HK who are familiar with it can share some experience?

I'm currently a final year student and can defer if I choose to do SA but just concerning about the return risk.

Much appreciate any comments or advice! Thanks guys and good luck to everyone!!!