Ben Barba’s manager has confirmed the superstar fullback has sought a release from the final two years of his NRL contract with Canterbury.
According to reports Barba, who is currently sidelined with an ankle injury, wants to move to Brisbane with his young family.
The move would put Gold Coast and Brisbane in prime position to secure his services, should he be granted a release by the Bulldogs.
Barba’s manager Gavin Orr told The Sydney Morning Herald on Friday a written request for a release was lodged with the Bulldogs two weeks ago.
“The Bulldogs have been good to Ben, he’s been there for a long time and I think Ben has also been good for the Bulldogs,” Orr said.
“He’s won a Dally M there, he’s played some good footy and last year he helped them get to a grand final.
“It comes down to being happy. He’s found the main priority in his life is making sure his family is together.”
Orr said the Barba camp had yet to receive a response to the request.
Barba was diplomatic when asked about his contract situation on Sterlo on Fox Sports but confirmed Ainslie Currie, the mother of his two children, was set to move north and he would like to follow.
“My ex-partner and my kids will be relocating to Queensland,” Barba said.
“I’ve left all that stuff up to my management, to ask them what’s the possibilities of me going.
“At the end of the day, when she goes, how should I say it, because it’s quite a difficult question … I would like to join them. But at the moment I’m still contracted at the Dogs.
“We’ll see what happens.”
New Bulldogs chief executive Raelene Castle and coach Des Hasler are understood to be sympathetic towards Barba’s plight.
Wallabies star Israel Folau has been linked to Belmore as a possible replacement should Barba be released.