The Canterbury Bulldogs have made a $1 million call on playmaker Luke Metcalf as he prepares to join a new team for the 2027 season.
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While initial reports from Code Sports indicated that Metcalf flew to Australia to meet with Bulldogs officials, it is now being reported by that publication and 9News’ Danny Weidler that they have decided to withdraw from the race for his services.
“The Bulldogs, they’re out of the race for Luke Metcalf. They are not going to make an offer for the Warriors halfback,” Weidler said.
The decision by the Bulldogs means the St George Illawarra Dragons are the firm favourites to secure his signature after the Warriors granted him permission to speak with other teams and explore his options.
“As a result, probably puts St George Illawarra firmly in the box seat to try and sign Luke Metcalf for next year,” Weidler added.
“His asking price is around the million dollars a year. I don’t think the Dogs were willing to go anywhere near that.”
On the lookout for a halfback for some time, the Dragons met with Metcalf earlier in the week and they were previously interested in him last year when he was set to hit the open market, per Code Sports.
A move to the Dragons would see him link up with Scott Drinkwater, Keaon Koloamatangi and Phillip Sami, all of whom have been recruited for next season.
It is understood that the Warriors (Metcalf’s current team) hope the situation is sorted by the end of the weekend.
SHOCK CLUB EXPRESS INTEREST IN MCINNES
Twenty-four hours after a deal between Cameron McInnes and the Perth Bears fell through, the NSW Blues representative has found himself linked to another NRL club.
While he was all but certain to make the move overseas to the Super League, Love Rugby League reports the Melbourne Storm have been cited as having a keen interest in his services.
However, they face stiff competition from a variety of teams, including the PNG Chiefs and York Knights.
While the Chiefs won’t enter the NRL competition until 2028, it is understood that the Knights have launched a series bid for his services to make him a figurehead of their squad for next season, per Love Rugby League.
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“Hopefully in the next few weeks we’ll get [a new deal] sorted,” McInnes said recently.
“All I know is I’m keen to keep playing for a while longer.
“Oh, I’d love to stay here [Cronulla Sharks], but I’m also aware of all the circumstances with the club.”
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