LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Canterbury Bulldogs could be on the cusp of pulling off a major coup in the Rugby League world as they emerge as front-runners to secure the services of star fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen.
With a reported $1.6 million in salary cap space to play with, the Bulldogs are shaping up to be in prime position as Melbourne Storm ponders their next move.
Speculation has been rife that Papenhuyzen, who has yet to commit to a new contract with the Storm following a less-than-ideal offer, is garnering serious interest from the Bulldogs.
The 26-year-old may have to settle for a reduced salary if he chooses to remain in Melbourne, with his potential new deal dropping significantly from $950,000 to $750,000 per season.
As Papenhuyzen explores his options, it's been rumored that he could command a hefty $1 million per season from suitors like the Dragons, Bulldogs, and Eels.
Journalist Brent Read has even suggested that the Bulldogs are making a bold play for the talented fullback, aiming to secure his signature and add him to their star-studded lineup.
In a twist of fate, Code Sports has revealed that the Bulldogs have a sizeable $1.6 million buffer in their salary cap, giving them the ability to outbid Melbourne and potentially sway Papenhuyzen to make the move.
While the Storm had hoped to retain their star player and maintain their formidable spine featuring Harry Grant, Jahrome Hughes, and Cameron Munster, the Bulldogs could throw a spanner in the works with their financial power play.