The St George Illawarra Dragons are reportedly willing to outlay big sums of money for both Luke Metcalf and Connor Watson in their pursuit to launch a rapid rebuild.
The club has faced significant challenges, having made the finals only twice since Wayne Bennett's departure in 2011, and they are now experiencing their longest losing streak in history.
Beginning 2026 with nine consecutive losses and ending 2025 with four more, the Dragons have not won since August last year. Following Round 7, they parted ways with Shane Flanagan; however, results have not improved under interim coach Dean Young.
As they gear up for Magic Round against the Penrith Panthers, the Red V are preparing to welcome Keaon Koloamatangi, Phillip Sami, and Scott Drinkwater in 2027, but their recruitment efforts are far from finished.
Recent reports link them with Connor Watson, and after Luke Metcalf was given the green light to negotiate with other clubs, the Dragons quickly expressed interest in the New Zealand Warriors' halfback.
Metcalf is currently behind Tanah Boyd at the Warriors, and while Watson remains under contract with the Roosters for next season, it's believed that the Roosters would allow him to move if desired.
Wide World of Sports The Mole indicates that the Dragons are willing to pay above market value for both players to secure their contracts.
Watson has been connected with the new PNG franchise due to his contract ending in 2027, or even the Perth Bears if he departs this year, yet sources suggest he prefers staying in Sydney.
As a versatile player capable of occupying various roles, he would provide valuable experience alongside the young forwards the Dragons aim to develop, such as Toby and Ryan Couchman, Dylan Egan, Hamish Stewart, Loko Pasifiki Tonga, and Jacob Halangahu.