Hudson Young, a key player for the Canberra Raiders, has been granted the green light to consider his options with the Papua New Guinea Chiefs. He is scheduled to tour the team's facilities next month.
Young will have a week to engage with the Chiefs and evaluate what the new NRL club might offer him in Port Moresby.
According to The Daily Telegraph, the Raiders have officially allowed Young to make this visit, creating an opportunity for him to learn more about the Chiefs, despite Canberra's attempts to secure him long-term.
This development follows the Raiders significantly increasing their initial contract extension proposal for Young, reportedly presenting a three-year deal worth $3.3 million.
If he chooses to stay in Canberra, the contract would net Young around $1.1 million annually, making him the highest-paid player in Raiders' history.
However, his upcoming trip to Papua New Guinea adds an exciting twist to his future, as the Chiefs can promote their vision for the newly established franchise.
At this point, no negotiations have occurred between Young and the Chiefs due to anti-tampering regulations, requiring Canberra's consent for discussions to begin before November 1.
This week-long period allows Young to review the Chiefs' offer and tour their facilities, while also ensuring he cannot negotiate with other NRL teams before November 1.
This scenario bears similarities to Connor Watson's well-publicized visit to Papua New Guinea, which preceded his decision to join the new franchise.