The Perth Bears are actively constructing their team for the upcoming 2027 season, with new developments surfacing about one of their prospective players.
In May, The Daily Telegraph reported that Jamie Humphreys had inked a three-year contract with the NRL's newest team.
However, the club has yet to make an official announcement, leaving fans in anticipation for confirmation.
On Saturday afternoon, The Daily Telegraph revealed that Humphreys' management informed the Bears he would not be signing with them.
Instead, he plans to explore other opportunities. This news came as a shock to Bears officials, especially after his recent visit to their facilities.
Humphreys is capable of playing either as a halfback or at hooker, and he was expected to partner with Toby Sexton in the halves.
Signing Humphreys presents a challenge for the Rabbitohs, given that their salary cap is impacted by Payne Haas' three-year contract alongside Latrell Mitchell.
Currently, the Rabbitohs have 25 players confirmed for their 2027 roster, making the extension of Cody Walker a top priority.
With Jonah Glover and Ashton Ward also on board as halves, and Bronson Garlick, Peter Mamouzelos, and Brandon Smith available as hookers, other teams will likely seek to recruit Humphreys.