The rugby league community is abuzz once again, this time revolving around an England international.
Earlier this year, it was rumored that Morgan Smithies was close to securing his future with the Canberra Raiders, which would effectively remove him from the free agency scene and confirm his stay at the club since his 2024 switch from Wigan Warriors.
The Halifax native has joined the ranks of English forwards who have excelled in Canberra's colors.
However, as 2027 draws near, interest in Smithies is growing from both hemispheres.
The Daily Telegraph has reported that the Perth Bears have set their sights on the 25-year-old.
Perth is racing against time to assemble a strong team ahead of their inaugural NRL season.
Mal Meninga has already secured James McDonnell, Harry Newman, and Mikolaj Oledzki from the Leeds Rhinos, who currently sit atop the Super League, with Smithies also being a target on Meninga's radar.
Additionally, there are hints that Perth is close to finalizing a deal for Tyson Smoothy once he parts ways with Wakefield Trinity at the end of the season.
Love Rugby League has noted that Smithies' progress is being observed by clubs back in England, which comes as no surprise considering his impressive performances since joining the Raiders.