NRL Rumour Roundup: Cooper Bai to PNG Chiefs, Liam Martin's Future, Nathan Cleary and Huge Contract Battles

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The NRL transfer market is heating up as clubs prepare for November 1, when eligible players can begin negotiating with rival teams for the 2028 season.

From the ambitious PNG Chiefs recruitment drive to contract uncertainty at the Penrith Panthers, Newcastle Knights and Melbourne Storm, there are plenty of potential moves to watch.

The PNG Chiefs are emerging as one of the biggest talking points, with coach Willie Peters targeting established NRL stars to build a competitive squad ahead of the club's historic 2028 debut.

Meanwhile, several premiership-winning players are approaching important contract decisions, creating opportunities for rival clubs to strengthen their rosters.

Here is a comprehensive look at the biggest NRL transfer rumours, reported contract developments and potential player movements as of October 21, 2026.

PNG Chiefs target Cooper Bai as Titans face losing young forward

One of the biggest developing stories involves Gold Coast Titans forward Cooper Bai, who is reportedly poised to leave the club and join the PNG Chiefs.

According to The Courier-Mail, the 19-year-old has been given permission to speak with the expansion franchise and is exploring his options ahead of the 2027 season.

Bai is the son of Papua New Guinea rugby league legend Marcus Bai, making the potential move particularly significant for the new club.

The young forward previously considered leaving the Titans for the Melbourne Storm before ultimately remaining on the Gold Coast. He subsequently signed a deal covering the 2027 and 2028 seasons, with the second year understood to be a player option.

The reported interest from PNG represents a significant development, with the Chiefs looking to secure promising young talent alongside their established signings.

Bai's potential arrival would give the franchise a young forward with considerable development potential and a strong family connection to Papua New Guinea.

However, a deal has not been officially confirmed, meaning the Titans could still attempt to retain him, but PNG are set to offer Bai a $750,000 per season deal over four years, totalling a $3m deal.

PNG Chiefs pursue Nathan Cleary in ambitious recruitment plan

Nathan Cleary remains one of the biggest names to watch as the transfer market approaches its opening.

The Penrith Panthers superstar is widely regarded as the NRL's premier halfback, and his future could become the subject of a major recruitment battle if he becomes available.

PNG Chiefs coach Willie Peters has confirmed that the club is interested in high-profile halfbacks, including Cleary and Sydney Roosters playmaker Sam Walker.

The Chiefs have the financial backing to pursue marquee players, with the club hoping to establish itself as a genuine contender rather than simply an expansion team.

Cleary's situation is complicated by his existing commitments to Penrith and his recent serious ankle injury, which ruled him out of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.

The Panthers will be determined to retain their star halfback, particularly given his importance to the club's premiership success. However, if Cleary reaches the open market, several clubs could be interested in making a substantial offer.

PNG would be an especially significant destination because the club is building its roster from the ground up and wants a recognised leader in the halves.

Liam Martin attracts interest from Broncos and Sharks

Penrith's salary-cap situation could become one of the defining stories of the upcoming transfer period, with representative second-rower Liam Martin attracting interest from rival clubs.

According to Zero Tackle's October 18 report, the Brisbane Broncos and Cronulla Sharks are preparing to make a play for Martin if he becomes available on November 1.

The 29-year-old has won four premierships with the Panthers and established himself as one of the competition's most respected back-rowers.

Martin has publicly indicated that re-signing with Penrith would be his preferred outcome, but negotiations have not yet produced a confirmed extension.

The challenge for Penrith is balancing Martin's next contract against the commitments already made to other members of its successful roster.

The Broncos and Sharks could offer an alternative, particularly if they believe Martin can strengthen their forward packs for the 2028 season.

A move would represent a major change for a player who has spent his NRL career with Penrith, but the Panthers remain in the contest while negotiations continue.

Hudson Young and the PNG Chiefs hit a recruitment roadblock

Canberra Raiders back-rower Hudson Young is another major name linked with the PNG Chiefs, but his potential move has reportedly encountered a financial hurdle.

According to The Daily Telegraph, the Raiders have put forward a lucrative four-year extension worth approximately $1.1 million per season.

The Chiefs are reportedly interested in securing Young for their inaugural campaign, with coach Willie Peters confirming the club's interest in the representative forward.

However, the report indicates that a dispute over the valuation of Young's potential contract has complicated arrangements for a visit to Port Moresby.

The Raiders' offer is reportedly worth around $300,000 more per season than the Chiefs' current valuation, leaving Young with a major decision about his future.

He could accept Canberra's offer, continue exploring the PNG opportunity or wait until the wider market opens.

For the Chiefs, Young would be a major acquisition because he combines representative experience with the ability to make an impact in the middle and on the edges.

For Canberra, retaining him would be a significant statement as the club looks to maintain its competitive position.

Roosters prepare massive offer for Stefano Utoikamanu

The Sydney Roosters are reportedly preparing a major offer for Melbourne Storm prop Stefano Utoikamanu as they look to strengthen their forward pack.

According to The Daily Telegraph, the Roosters are emerging as a serious contender for the front-rower's signature when he becomes eligible to negotiate with rival clubs on November 1.

Utoikamanu is expected to attract significant interest because of his age, size and ability to lead an NRL forward pack.

The Roosters are reportedly considering him as a long-term successor to Lindsay Collins, although the club is also interested in retaining Collins beyond his current deal.

The report suggests Utoikamanu could command more than $1 million per season on his next contract.

Melbourne, meanwhile, remain keen to retain the forward alongside key players Harry Grant and Cameron Munster.

Utoikamanu previously rejected a substantial extension from Wests Tigers before joining the Storm, demonstrating that he is prepared to make major decisions about his career.

A return to Sydney could appeal for personal reasons, but the Storm remain a serious contender.

Bradman Best's future at Newcastle remains uncertain

Newcastle Knights centre Bradman Best is another player attracting attention as clubs prepare for the next contract cycle.

Several reports have suggested the Knights' latest offer is below his expected earnings, raising questions about whether the NSW representative will remain in Newcastle beyond 2027.

Best has developed into one of the competition's most powerful centres and would be an attractive option for clubs looking to strengthen their outside backs.

Newcastle face a difficult balancing act, with significant contracts already committed to key players, including Kalyn Ponga and Dylan Brown.

If the Knights cannot reach an agreement with Best, rival clubs could have an opportunity to pursue his signature.

However, the situation remains fluid, and an offer below a player's expectations does not automatically mean a departure is inevitable.

The coming weeks should provide a clearer picture of Newcastle's plans and Best's intentions.

The Parramatta Eels are said to be keen on a move for Best from 2028, if the Knights fail to reach an agreement.

Mat Croker attracts rival interest as Knights face salary-cap pressure

Newcastle could face another difficult contract decision involving lock forward Mat Croker.

Zero Tackle reported on October 21 that at least two rival clubs, one from Sydney and another from Queensland, are planning to target Croker when negotiations open on November 1.

The 27-year-old enjoyed a strong 2026 season and became an important part of the Knights' forward pack, playing all 28 possible games.

His consistency, defensive reliability and ability to contribute in attack have increased his value.

Newcastle are reportedly keen to retain Croker, but the club's salary-cap commitments could complicate negotiations.

With several established players already contracted for future seasons, the Knights must decide how much they can afford to offer a forward whose performances have strengthened his bargaining position.

Croker's preference about leaving Newcastle remains unclear, but rival interest could place additional pressure on the club.

Sam Walker faces a major contract decision at the Roosters

Sydney Roosters halfback Sam Walker is another player whose future could become a major talking point as November 1 approaches.

The Roosters have reportedly placed a deadline on contract negotiations with the young playmaker, creating uncertainty about whether an agreement can be reached before rival clubs are able to negotiate.

Walker has developed into one of the club's most important attacking players and recently helped the Roosters secure the 2026 premiership.

His age and ability make him a valuable long-term prospect, and several clubs could be interested if he becomes available.

The PNG Chiefs have also identified Walker as a potential target as they look to secure a quality halfback for their inaugural season.

The Roosters will be eager to avoid losing a player who could anchor their team for years, but the financial details of any extension will be crucial.

If negotiations remain unresolved, the market could become increasingly competitive.

Herbie Farnworth linked with a major Roosters offer

Dolphins centre Herbie Farnworth is reportedly another target for the Sydney Roosters as they look to reinforce their outside backs.

According to The Daily Telegraph, the club is considering a major offer for the England international as it plans for 2028.

Farnworth has established himself as one of the NRL's most dangerous centres, combining speed, strength and strong defensive positioning.

The Dolphins are keen to retain key players as they attempt to remain competitive, but they face several contract decisions across their roster.

The Roosters' reported interest could create a difficult situation if Farnworth becomes available to negotiate with rivals.

His potential departure would be a significant loss for the Dolphins, particularly given his importance to their attacking structure.

Jack Bostock could become another Dolphins retention battle

Jack Bostock's future is another situation worth monitoring, with the young outside back reportedly attracting interest from rival clubs.

According to SEN reporting, there is uncertainty about whether Bostock will remain with the Dolphins, despite the club's desire to retain him.

St George Illawarra have also been linked with an interest in the Australian representative, creating the possibility of a contest for his signature. The Sharks and Eels are also rumoured to be eyeing a move for Bostock.

Bostock's performances have increased his profile, and his age makes him an appealing target for clubs looking to secure outside backs for the long term.

The Dolphins also have other major roster decisions to manage, including their efforts to retain Farnworth.

If both players become available, the club could face a significant challenge keeping its backline together.

Tyrell Sloan linked with Parramatta Eels

Tyrell Sloan has emerged as a potential option for the Parramatta Eels as the club considers its outside-back options ahead of the 2027 NRL season.

Sloan has already signed a deal to join Super League side Castleford Tigers, alongside Dragons teammates Damien Cook and Mat Feagai. However, reports suggest Parramatta could offer him an NRL lifeline if Josh Addo-Carr’s future at the club becomes uncertain.

Sloan has previously indicated that he would prefer to remain in Australia, although any potential move would need to be worked out with Castleford. No deal with the Eels has been confirmed.

There is also the possibility Sloan stays at the Dragons, calling off his England move.

Blaize Talagi could return to the Eels

Parramatta are reportedly monitoring former junior Blaize Talagi as he approaches free agency.

Talagi left the Eels to join Penrith and is recovering from an Achilles injury suffered during the 2026 finals. With his contract situation approaching a decision point, a return to Parramatta has emerged as a possibility.

The Eels are understood to be keeping an eye on his availability, but there is no confirmed agreement.

Moses Leota could test the open market

Penrith Panthers prop Moses Leota is reportedly preparing to explore his options as he weighs up his next contract.

The Panthers face major retention decisions involving Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo, which could create salary-cap pressure. Reports have indicated that several rival clubs are monitoring Leota ahead of the next negotiating window.

Leota’s preference has reportedly been to remain at Penrith, but his future is not settled.

Perth Bears weighing up Cameron Munster

The Perth Bears have reportedly considered Cameron Munster as a potential marquee target for their 2028 entry into the NRL.

Munster’s experience and playmaking ability would make him a major signing, but the Storm’s salary-cap situation and their need to retain key players could influence discussions about his long-term future.

At this stage, the Bears link remains a reported possibility rather than a confirmed move. Munster's future has been in the headlines for months, he's one to keep a close eye on.

Joseph Manu linked with a possible early NRL return

Joseph Manu has already signed with the PNG Chiefs for 2028, but reports have raised the possibility of an NRL club exploring whether he could return to the competition earlier.

Manu has been playing rugby union, and any move for 2027 would depend on his existing commitments and whether an arrangement could be reached. His PNG deal should be treated as the confirmed part of the story; an earlier NRL return remains speculative.

Harry Grant linked with several NRL clubs as free agency looms

Melbourne Storm captain Harry Grant is one of the biggest names to watch as the November 1 contract window approaches.

Reports indicate Grant is expected to decline his player option for 2028 and test his value on the open market, potentially becoming available to rival clubs for the 2027 season and beyond.

The Manly Sea Eagles, PNG Chiefs, St George Illawarra Dragons and Canterbury Bulldogs have all been mentioned as possible suitors. Newcastle has also been linked with Grant, although the Knights' salary-cap situation could make a deal difficult.

Grant's future is a major talking point for Melbourne, which is also dealing with uncertainty surrounding Cameron Munster and the club's longer-term plans. However, Grant has not confirmed a move away from the Storm, and a new deal in Melbourne remains possible.

Jeral Skelton reportedly set for Bulldogs return

Former Wests Tigers winger Jeral Skelton is reportedly closing in on a return to the Canterbury Bulldogs for the 2027 season.

Skelton is leaving the Tigers after his contract was not renewed, despite showing his attacking ability during the closing stages of the season. His size, power and ability to make strong runs out of his own end make him an appealing option for clubs looking to strengthen their outside backs.

In my opinion, he is one of the most underrated players in the NRL, it's shocking to see the Tigers, a side that's struggling, not re-sign him.

The Bulldogs are reportedly interested in bringing Skelton back to the club where he began his NRL career. Reports suggest negotiations are at an advanced stage, with a Top 30 contract a possibility.

A return to Canterbury would give Skelton another opportunity to establish himself as a regular first-grade winger, although the move should be described as reported rather than officially confirmed until the club announces a deal.

Luron Patea's Panthers future under a cloud

Penrith Panthers prop Luron Patea has been linked with a possible early exit as the club manages its forward depth and salary-cap commitments.

Reports in late September suggested the 21-year-old had been given permission to explore opportunities elsewhere for 2027, despite having a contract with Penrith until the end of that season. Patea has struggled to secure consistent NRL minutes behind the Panthers' established forwards.

However, the situation is disputed. Subsequent reporting indicated Penrith had pushed back on claims that Patea had been cleared to leave, with the club maintaining that he remained contracted.

Patea could attract interest from rival clubs looking for a young front-rower, but any potential transfer remains uncertain. For now, his future at Penrith is one to keep an eye on rather than a confirmed departure.

Xavier Willison's next contract under the spotlight

Brisbane Broncos forward Xavier Willison is another young player attracting attention as his next contract approaches.

Reports indicate that Willison's next deal is being discussed, with at least one important condition still to be resolved.

The Broncos will want to retain a promising forward who can contribute to their pack over the coming seasons, but rival clubs could monitor the situation if negotiations stall.

Reports in recent months have indicated the Broncos have offered $1m per season to tie down Willison, who is a key player for Brisbane now Payne Haas has left the club for the Rabbitohs.