Wakefield Trinity is preparing to enhance their forward lineup with the anticipated addition of NRL player Mason Teague, following Tyson Smoothy's confirmed exit.
Currently playing for the Burleigh Bears in the Queensland Cup, Teague is recognized for his versatility, being able to perform as both a hooker and a lock, which has drawn significant interest.
Love Rugby League reported on Wednesday that Teague is on the verge of signing with Wakefield, shortly after coach Daryl Powell announced that Smoothy would be returning to Australia at the season's end.
The 22-year-old Teague has navigated a unique journey through the NRL, debuting for the Dolphins in 2024 and making eight appearances during his initial season before not being included in the club's first-grade plans.
After transferring to the Newcastle Knights in 2025, he couldn't add to his NRL experience and subsequently signed a train-and-trial deal with the Brisbane Broncos earlier this year.
Teague's attributes are expected to effectively fill Smoothy's role, as both players are seen as agile, ball-playing forwards who can handle multiple positions in the middle of the field.
Moreover, Teague is expected to head to England just months before representing the Cook Islands in this year's Rugby League World Cup.
Wakefield's interest in Teague comes after Smoothy's Super League tenure was confirmed to be just a single season, despite originally signing a three-year contract.
The ex-Brisbane Broncos hooker joined Trinity following his contribution to Brisbane's premiership win in 2024, and is rumored to be on track for a return to the NRL, potentially joining the incoming Perth Bears for the 2027 season.