LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Reports suggest that Blaize Talagi could make a stunning return to Parramatta following Dylan Brown's $13 million deal with Newcastle.
Meanwhile, speculation is increasing about Kalyn Ponga's potential move to the Roosters, with veteran journalist Andrew Webster claiming that the club is actively pursuing the Knights captain.
The Roosters, led by chairman Nick Politis, are reportedly interested in Ponga as a replacement for James Tedesco, who is signed with the club until 2026.
Ponga's current contract with the Knights runs until 2027, but rumors have linked him to a switch to rugby union and the All Blacks due to his New Zealand roots.
After a recent win over the Dolphins, Ponga and Knights coach Adam O'Brien denied reports of Ponga's discontent in Newcastle, but Webster believes the Roosters are serious about securing the star player for a rebuild at the club.
With their financial flexibility from releasing players last year, the Roosters could be aiming for a major signing like Ponga before Politis potentially steps down.
Webster emphasized that the Roosters' interest in Ponga is concrete and part of a larger plan for the club's future.
He suggested that Newcastle's signing of Brown may also be a contingency plan in case Ponga decides to leave, rather than solely recruiting another star player to bolster their roster.