The Papua New Guinea Chiefs are firmly positioned to secure former Sydney Roosters sensation Joseph Manu ahead of their NRL debut in 2028.
This would mark a significant achievement for the new 19th club, as Code Sports reports that Manu is contemplating leaving rugby union to take on a role with the Chiefs as a franchise player.
Currently playing rugby union in France, the talented centre's contract runs until the end of 2027, allowing him to join the Chiefs during their inaugural season.
In conversations with his father, Nooroa, Code Sports learned that Joseph is exploring various options and is keen on becoming the first signing for the Melanesian nation.
The former Kiwi centre is set to return to Australia in two months, where discussions regarding his future are likely to intensify.
"Yes, PNG is an option," he stated.
"We are looking at options at the moment and the next level would be to see how it (living in PNG) would have an impact on him.
"Joey is coming back here around June. He is going to weigh up his options. He has another year in France and he may look at league. He is at a crossroads you could say.
"Obviously he will look at the risks of coming back as well."