Hudson Young, a standout player for the Canberra Raiders, is poised to engage in discussions with the new PNG Chiefs next month.
The Raiders have presented the NSW State of Origin representative with a record contract, but the introduction of the NRL's 19th franchise has provided a significant opportunity for the 28-year-old.
This September, Young will receive clearance to speak with the Chiefs for a week, possibly touring the club's facilities in Port Moresby.
Negotiations haven't commenced yet due to NRL's anti-tampering policies, but the Raiders have allowed Young to converse as he recovers from his season-ending Achilles injury.
Recently, the Raiders boosted their initial three-year contract offer for Young to $3.3 million, amounting to approximately $1.1 million annually.
This would position Young as the highest-paid player in Raiders history, exceeding the $4 million, four-year deal proposed to Jack Wighton in 2023, which Wighton ultimately declined in favor of South Sydney.
However, the Chiefs may hold a significant edge in attracting Young, thanks to the tax incentives available to players joining the new PNG franchise.
If Young is considered a Priority A recruit, as speculated, the Chiefs might offer more than Canberra's $1.1 million-per-year deal while also providing tax-free advantages.