Luciano Leilua, the second-rower for St George Illawarra Dragons, has been offered to the Brisbane Broncos as he seeks an escape from the Red V.
Recently, Leilua played in the NSW Cup after being dropped but has now been reinstated to the Dragons' bench for the upcoming match against the Newcastle Knights, despite requesting a release from the club.
Although the Dragons have reportedly denied his request, Leilua is in a position to negotiate with other teams, as he is off-contract at the end of the season and has had that option since November 1 of last year.
According to a report from News Corp, the Broncos are a prospective club that may show interest in Leilua.
It appears he has been presented to them, and while their level of interest remains uncertain, it is likely that Leilua will part ways with the Dragons at the season's conclusion, even if it does not occur by the desired June 30 deadline.
The Dragons are currently undergoing significant changes, with Jaydn Su'A already confirming a move to the Parramatta Eels, and Damien Cook heading to England. Reports indicate that Leilua, along with Emre Guler and Moses Suli, is also expected to depart.
Uncertainty also looms over the futures of Blake Lawrie, Valentine Holmes, and Clint Gutherson.
On a brighter note, the club has announced the signing of five new players for 2027, including Scott Drinkwater, Phillip Sami, Luke Metcalf, Keaon Koloamatangi, and Connor Watson, who will bolster the struggling squad.
In Brisbane, the absence of second-rowers is becoming increasingly apparent.