Penrith Panthers star Stephen Crichton could step into Wayne Bennett’s sights at the Dolphins

Could the Dolphins be lining up Penrith Panthers star Stephen Crichton as their marquee signing?

The Dolphins and Wayne Bennett have come under fire in recent months for failing to nail down any big signings, with Kalyn Ponga and Jahrome Hughes refusing a move.

Now, the Daily Telegraph‘s Dave Riccio believe Bennett will try and lure Crichton from the Mountains to play fullback.

Though the electric centre is currently contracted to Penrith until the end of next season, he can negotiate with other clubs from November 1.

Bennett has been defiant in recent weeks, having to defend his club’s recruitment policy.

“We are pretty comfortable that the players we have got are quality,” Bennett said.

“With sponsorship there is a lot of things sitting in the cupboard back home that we haven’t released yet. We are not quite in the position to do that, but I’m sure over the next couple of months you will see the roster fill up and with really good players.

“There is criticism we haven’t signed anybody. There is criticism about Dad’s Army and there will be criticism about something else in the future.

“We know what we are doing and we are confident in what we are doing and no one is going to distract me personally from doing what I think is the best thing for the club.

“We have got to protect what we are trying to build there and sometimes it is not in everybody’s best interests for it to be public. It will be down the track but it is not going to be today.”

Riccio also revealed that the Dolphins will announce more signings.

“Talking to the Dolphins today they claim they have a few signings coming in the next couple of weeks,” Riccio said.

“No names. I don’t know who they are.”