The Warriors are reportedly set to apply strict rules to which club star prop Addin Fonua-Blake joins in 2025 after his bombshell release request.
The 28-year-old was initially seeking an immediate release, but after a meeting with club powerbrokers committed to the Warriors for the 2024 season.
The gun prop will reportedly only release him to a Sydney club, meaning on clubs within NSW with salary cap space will be able to sign him.
Fonua-Blake’s current contract is worth a reported $1 million-a-season and he is signed on with the Warriors until the end of 2026.
The Roosters have reportedly pulled out of the race for his signature, with the Panthers and Eels also won’t be making a play.
That leaves the Dragons and Bulldogs as the major players to acquire his services while the Rabbitohs, Sharks and Tigers would reportedly have to juggle their salary cap.
Interestingly, Bulldogs supremo Phil Gould has a relationship with Fonua-Blake, having previously worked at the Warriors.
However, the Dragons are leading the race to acquire his services and have the cap space to be able to comfortably pay his salary.
He also previously played in the Dragons junior system but was let go in 2015 to join the Sea Eagles.
The Warriors reportedly want a player in return for Fonua-Blake, meaning the Red V would have to let go of a player from their own forward pack.
Replies
Would you swap Junior or RCG for the extra $100k hit on cap space. The freshen up might do Junior good, which would be win win.
I would not let RCG go at all, he has been our best middle since he got here. Paulo on the other hand......
No way would I swap RCG for Blake. RCG has been outstanding for us. That is just crazy talk!
I wouldn't either .... RCG should be our forward leader. Not sure the thinking behind having junior as co-captain. Maybe the inspirational half time pep talks?
Jnr I'll pack his bags no way RCG
Lol how the fark does south's even have space to get him
Came here to say this . How the fuck can South's be mentioned with a straight face . Ditto Canterbury .
See ya Junes .
Dogs rorting the cap again
RCG... AFB... there's a 3 name combo right there.