LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
In a massive NRL boost for the Dragons, the Wests Tigers have decided to withdraw from the race to sign Addin Fonua-Blake, clearing the path for St.
George Illawarra to secure the wantaway forward.
The Tigers were considered frontrunners for the Tongan international's signature, with the means to meet his reported asking price of $1.2 million a season.
However, Interim Wests Tigers CEO Shane Richardson revealed that the massive contract Fonua-Blake is commanding is not aligned with the club's future goals.
Despite acknowledging the prop's talent, Richardson emphasized the need for cap flexibility to strengthen other areas of the team.
Interestingly, this decision by the Tigers comes shortly after the Bulldogs appeared to make a similar move.
Phil Gould, who met with Fonua-Blake after he expressed his desire to leave the Warriors, suggested that the Bulldogs are unlikely to pursue the forward as they focus on rebuilding under coach Cameron Ciraldo.