LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Griffin Neame, a forward for the North Queensland Cowboys, is reportedly gaining interest from other teams as he prepares to enter the open market. As one of 15 Cowboys players eligible to negotiate with rival clubs starting November 1, Neame is noted for his willingness to explore his market value.
At just 24 years old, Neame has established himself as a six-time international representative for New Zealand and is considered one of the standout young forwards at the Cowboys. Although the team hopes to retain him, it is anticipated that he will draw significant interest from other clubs.
According to News Corp, Neame has become a target for the Perth Bears, who are set to join the NRL in 2027 and are permitted to start discussions with players shortly.
The Bears have been linked to several prominent players recently, including Brisbane Broncos' Deine Mariner and Gehamat Shibasaki, Cronulla Sharks' captain Cameron McInnes, Gold Coast Titans players David Fifita, Jayden Campbell, and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, as well as Melbourne Storm stars Cameron Munster and Harry Grant.
"Any player off contract at the end of 2026 is going to be put in the papers linked with the Perth Bears being interested," Bears coach Mal Meninga stated in a conversation with SEN 1170.
"All these people are being listed that we're interested in, they're all off contract next year. It's not that hard to put a list together."