Cooper Bai arrived in Port Moresby on Wednesday after holding a secret meeting with the PNG Chiefs, as he prepares to leave the Gold Coast Titans after the 2027 season.
A potential four-year deal could earn the 19-year-old forward $3 million and make him the Chiefs' player "008".
The Titans allowed Bai to negotiate before November 1 and confirmed on Wednesday that he would depart. He could otherwise have tested the market from that date.
Bai drew interest from Penrith, the Sydney Roosters and Melbourne after the 2024 season. His father, Marcus Bai, played for the Storm and was involved in his son's previous negotiations with the Titans.
Josh Hannay said Bai's exit would create opportunities for young middle forwards, naming Bodhi Sharpley, Viliami Fifita and Torino Jackson.
"We have some outstanding young middle forwards coming through, including Bodhi Sharpley, Viliami Fifita and Torino Jackson, who we believe can become key members of the squad in the coming seasons," Hannay said.
"Cooper has grown a lot as a player and a person over the past 12 months, and we're proud to have played a part in supporting his development."
Since debuting in 2025, Bai has played 24 games, including 23 in 2026. In 23 matches during his rookie season, he scored twice, made 13 tackle breaks and averaged 19.4 tackles at 90.4 per cent efficiency.
A hamstring injury ruled him out of the World Cup and a chance to represent the PNG Kumuls, who beat Lebanon in their opening group match.