LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a bold move that has set off a three-way sprint reminiscent of a thrilling footrace, Queenslander and State of Origin coach Billy Slater has stepped into the spotlight to comment on the contract situation of Titans forward David Fifita.
The Panthers have thrown their hat in the ring, offering the talented star a hefty three-year deal worth $850,000 per season, igniting a fierce battle amongst NRL clubs vying for his coveted signature.
The Dragons and Roosters have also joined the fray, eager to secure the services of this Maroons Origin player.
With the deadline for Fifita to make a decision looming as round 10 kicks off in the NRL, the clock is ticking fast for the young gun.
He has the option to activate the final two years of his current Titans contract, which he inked last year amidst the tumultuous departure of former coach Justin Holbrook.
Should he choose not to extend his stay with the Gold Coast by Thursday's cutoff date, Fifita will become a sought-after free agent in the open market.
The Panthers, flushed with cash and having cleared salary cap space with the departure of James Fisher-Harris to the Warriors next season, are keen to add a marquee player like Fifita to their roster.
The Kiwi international prop's departure has opened the door for Penrith to swoop in and bolster an already formidable squad with the addition of Fifita for the 2025 season.
Penrith legend Mark Geyer has chimed in on the potential move, expressing his belief that Fifita has the makings of a world-class prop and could thrive in a new position at the Panthers.
The dynamic back-rower's versatility could see him slotting into an edge forward role for the three-time defending premiers, a transition that Geyer sees as highly promising for Fifita's career development.