LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In a bombshell move that has sent shockwaves through the Rugby League world, Jarome Luai has reportedly signed a staggering $6 million deal with the Wests Tigers.
The crafty five-eighth is set to leave the Panthers, but there is still a glimmer of hope for Penrith fans as he has 10 days to backflip on the move.
This announcement comes after Luai found himself caught up in a high-stakes open market saga, with the Panthers refusing to budge on their contract extension offer.
The club had offered him a substantial contract, but the Tigers swooped in with a lucrative $4.5 million deal for four years.
However, it seems the allure of the Tigers was too strong, as Luai put pen to paper on a five-year agreement worth a whopping $6 million.
This is undoubtedly a massive coup for the struggling Tigers, who have experienced a tumultuous period over the past couple of years.
With back-to-back wooden spoons in their trophy cabinet, the club has been in desperate need of a game-changer, and Luai could be the answer.
The new NRL trade deal has given the Panthers a glimmer of hope, as they now have 10 days to try and convince Luai to stay.
But without significantly boosting their offer, they may find themselves losing one of their key playmakers.
Only time will tell if Luai will don the orange and black jersey or remain with the Panthers' formidable halves combination.