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.
Although Ivan Cleary, the head coach of the Penrith Panthers, and Nathan Cleary, his halves partner, have voiced great confidence in their abilities to retain the star half, Luai is expected to test the free market to determine his worth.
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 Canberra Raiders, who have yet to find a replacement for Jack Wighton, who will leave for South Sydney before the start of the 2019 season, are one of the teams rumored to be interested in Luai.
Other teams, such as the Newcastle Knights and St. George Illawarra Dragons, might also express interest. Kieran Foran is expected to retire at the end of 2024, and the Gold Coast Titans might be persuaded to make a move because there aren’t many other great halves available.
