After Jarome Luai's unexpected departure from Leichhardt, Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh is open to the idea of the Samoan international joining the Wallabies at a suitable price for the upcoming Rugby World Cup in 2027.
Luai has become a free agent for next year following a mutual decision with the Wests Tigers to terminate the last year of his contract.
In a surprising turn of events, Luai was revealed in April as the inaugural signing for the PNG Chiefs' inaugural season set for 2028.
This development gives Luai some flexibility between September of this year and the Chiefs' launch, with CODE Sports reporting Waugh's interest in the 29-year-old for the Wallabies, provided the financial terms align.
"the proposition is very different to an NRL proposition and the door's always open," Waugh told CODE Sports.
"We want to create an environment that attracts the best talent in Australia and around the world, and the door's always open for those that want to come and experience that experience."
It remains unclear if Luai would entertain switching codes, especially when he could score a lucrative NRL contract before heading to Port Moresby, leaving open the question of his future in the 13-man format.
Regardless, Waugh's openness is noteworthy, as rugby league has seen stranger transitions before.
Waugh emphasized that a World Cup opportunity entails more than just financial rewards, highlighting the unforgettable experiences Luai could gain by representing Australia on home soil.