LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Perth Bears' decision to not hire Sam Burgess as their head coach may lead to significant changes within the NRL, particularly for the Dolphins, who are eyeing a potential signing of Warrington Wolves captain George Williams.
Williams, who previously played as halfback for Canberra and played a crucial role in their 2020 preliminary final run, had been expected to join Burgess at the Bears if he secured the position.
However, the Bears selected Mal Meninga for the role, creating an opportunity for the Dolphins to acquire Williams.
Although Williams is still under contract with Warrington for another year, the Wolves anticipate losing him by the end of the season.
Reports indicate that Warrington is unlikely to release him without compensation, setting a price tag of $400,000 for the 30-year-old.
The Dolphins have shown interest in signing him.
Additionally, there have been discussions about a potential swap involving Dolphins five-eighth Kodi Nikorima, who also has a year remaining on his contract.
However, the Dolphins are inclined to retain Nikorima due to his successful partnership with young halfback Isaiya Katoa this season.
This strategic interest in Williams hints at the Dolphins' aim to bolster their squad with an experienced halfback to mentor Katoa, one of the league's promising talents.
Moreover, while the Dolphins had ambitions to sign Manly captain Daly Cherry-Evans, he's likely to join the Roosters this upcoming season.
As the situation develops, the potential signing of Williams could signify a promising direction for the Dolphins in the NRL landscape.