The favourites to sign star player who broke English hearts revealed

One of the best players in the world right now is Stephen Crichton.

Twice a hero to Penrith Panthers as they went on to win back-to-back Grand Finals with Crichton scoring the winner in the 2021 decider.

He was then Samoa’s hero in the Rugby League World Cup when his Golden Point drop goal broke English hearts in the semi-finals prior to scoring in the final against Australia.

However, now in the final year of his deal at Penrith, rival clubs can negotiate with him.

A curveball in all of this is the fact he has a desire to play fullback, a role Canterbury need to fill and subsequently they are chasing Crichton who it could be difficult for Penrith to keep as they have to give improved deals to their stars squeezing out others.

Nathan Cleary has been given a million dollar deal and today the club extended Brian To’o’s deal.

The contract extension will see the two-time premiership player remain in Panthers colours until at least the end of the 2027 season.

“I’m very grateful and blessed to call Panthers home for the next four years,” To’o said.

“I’d like to thank everyone at the club for giving me the opportunity to do what I love. I can’t wait to play for our amazing members and fans, who have shown me nothing but love and support.”

Panthers coach Ivan Cleary couldn’t be happier to have Brian re-sign with the club.

“Not only is Bizza a tremendous player who has continually performed at the highest level in the biggest games, but he is more importantly a brilliant young man who brightens the day of anyone he comes in contact with,” Cleary said.

“I feel happy for our players, staff, members and partners that he will be here long-term.”

However, this move could leave Cleary without Crichton after 2023 especially now that the favourites for his signature have been revealed by Daily Telegraph journalist Phil Rothfield on Twitter.

Unsurprisingly, Rothfield has claimed his most likely destination is Canterbury for 2024.