Jarome Luai, a talented halfback, is expected to sign with a new management company this week, therefore the Penrith Panthers will be in a race to recruit him.
As of November 1, Luai, whose contract expires at the end of 2024, is free to speak with other teams.
While the Penrith Panthers – led by coach Ivan Cleary and backed by halves partner Nathan Cleary – have expressed plenty of confidence in their ability to keep the star half, Luai is likely to hit the open market to ascertain his value.
According to Channel 9s Danny Weidler, Luai is set to confirm this week that he has signed with Black Money Enterprises.
The management company also represent the likes of South Sydney Rabbitohs stars Latrell Mitchell and Cody Walker.
Luai had a 90-day cooling off period following the end of his previous management contract and while it was speculated they had given permission for sign on his own during that time no deal has been able to be reached with Penrith now meaning he is likely to hit the open market.
It means only two weeks remain before Luai will begin to field offers from rival clubs, where a reported $300,000 per year difference could exist.
The Panthers are reportedly only able to offer Luai around $700,000 per season, while other clubs could turn him into a million-dollar player.
One of those clubs likely to make a play for Luai is believed to be the Canberra Raiders who are still yet to replace Jack Wighton, who departs for South Sydney ahead of next season.
Other clubs could also show interest, including the likes of the Newcastle Knights and St George Illawarra Dragons, while Kieran Foran is likely to retire at the end of 2024 and a lack of quality halves on the market could convince the Gold Coast Titans to make a play.
