The St George Illawarra Dragons have acted swiftly, securing Warriors standout Luke Metcalf following a rift with the New Zealand Warriors.
Metcalf has reportedly put pen to paper with the Red V, as noted by the Daily Telegraph, agreeing to a lucrative three-year contract valued at $900,000 per season starting next year.
This marks a significant recruitment victory for the Dragons, who have also been able to retain the talents of Scott Drinkwater until 2027, enhancing their attacking options.
The club has taken steps to improve their previously underwhelming offense, a move that is likely to propel them away from the bottom of the ladder by 2027.
With Damien Cook set to transition to the Super League next year, the Dragons will introduce a completely revamped spine, ushering in a new chapter for the Red V. Drinkwater and Metcalf will team up with Daniel Atkinson and Jacob Liddle in key positions.
Speculation suggests that the Warriors are now focusing on Tanah Boyd as their main playmaker, prompted by an excess of halves in their squad.
The club permitted Metcalf to explore other options despite having extended his contract last year.
Having played just 47 NRL games due to a challenging injury history, Metcalf dazzles whenever he is fit and on the field.
The Dragons have also strengthened their lineup by signing standout forward Keaon Koloamatangi and outside back Phillip Sami for the 2027 season.