LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Perth Bears are reportedly interested in signing Brisbane Broncos outside backs Deine Mariner and Jesse Arthars, even though both players are under contract for an additional two seasons.
Although they are committed to the Broncos until the end of 2027, the team is undergoing a transformation under new coach Michael Maguire, and early releases for several players may be on the table.
Over the next six months, numerous players are expected to be connected with the Bears, as the club is allowed to negotiate with those who will be off-contract at the conclusion of the 2026 NRL season beginning November 1. The Bears are currently in the process of finalizing their coaching staff.
While the Bears have ample time to determine their roster construction, they are likely to recruit one or two high-caliber players to ensure immediate competitiveness, following a similar approach to The Dolphins.
Brent Read reported on Triple M's NRL Daily that Deine Mariner has caught the attention of the Perth Bears. A two-time international representative for Samoa, Mariner has played 40 matches in the NRL since debuting in 2022, yet he has struggled to secure a consistent position in the outside backs, often serving as a backup in either the centres or on the wing.