Clubs like Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, Hull FC, Leigh Leopards and Catalans Dragons will be monitoring spine players who are available.
The Dragons are set to lose Sam Tomkins, Mitchell Pearce and Tyrone May at the end of the year whilst Lachlan Lam’s future at Leigh has been questioned with Canberra Raiders.
Hull FC have already lost Jake Clifford for next year and have been interested in Newcastle Knights star Adam Clune.
Wigan meanwhile are in the market for a number six with Cade Cust in the last year of his contract and transitioning to hooker.
Leeds is an interesting one with both Blake Austin and Aidan Sezer in the final year of their contracts. But interestingly, they have been linked more with fullbacks lately with the belief being Richie Myler could move to seven.
The Rhinos have been linked with Wests Tigers’ “X Factor” fullback Daine Laurie who can also play stand-off.
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Warrington Wolves were also tipped to sign the fullback earlier this year however a late move from NRL Champions and Laurie’s former club turned things upside down as Penrith Panthers came in for the Wests fullback.
It has now been confirmed that Laurie will return to the Panthers ahead of the 2024 NRL campaign after three seasons with Wests Tigers.
A proud Indigenous man, Laurie joined the Panthers as a teenager in 2017 and played in the club’s SG Ball, Jersey Flegg and NSW Cup teams before making his NRL debut in 2020.
The 24-year-old has played 46 NRL games with 10 tries to his name, and has represented the Indigenous All Stars and Prime Minister’s XIII.
Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron said he was pleased to see Laurie sign on with the club.
“I look forward to welcoming Daine back to Panthers for the 2024 season,” Cameron said.
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“It’s always rewarding to see a former Panther return home to the club, and we believe Daine can flourish in the Panthers environment.”
So Leeds will have to pivot their focus elsewhere. This could force Leeds’ hand as they are linked with Newcastle Knights fullback Lachlan Miller according to Rugby League Live.
Could they therefore go all guns blazing for Miller.