LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In the high-stakes game of securing Jarome Luai's signature, the Penrith Panthers have pulled off a surprising twist.
Despite being three-time premiership winners, the Panthers are not taking any chances and are prepared to up their initial offer to keep their star five-eighth.
The race for Luai's services has attracted the attention of not only the Panthers but also the Wests Tigers and Canterbury Bulldogs, leaving the player with a tough decision to make.
With the clock ticking, Luai has just over two weeks to determine where he wants to showcase his Rugby League skills from 2025 onwards.
The Wests Tigers have already made their move, putting a solid $4.5 million offer on the table, but the Panthers are not ready to give up the fight just yet.
Like seasoned veterans, they're ready to go the extra mile to retain their key player.
As negotiations heat up, it's clear that the Panthers are playing hardball in this high-stakes game.
Will Luai take the plunge and bet on the future with the Panthers, or will he be enticed by the promises of other teams? Only time will tell, but rest assured, the Rugby League world will be watching with bated breath.