THE TEN MOST IN DEMAND NRL STARS ON THE OPEN MARKET
1. Cooper Cronk
* The champion playmaker shocked the rugby league community when he announced he was leaving Melbourne at season’s end to move to Sydney. Canterbury, Wests Tigers, Cronulla and Parramatta lead the race for his signature. Cronk will demand in excess of $1 million.
2. Kieran Foran
* Made a successful return to the park with the Warriors on Sunday. Is unlikely to consider his future for several months but has flagged his intention to move back to Sydney. Has a connection with Dogs coach Des Hasler.
3. Jack Bird
* Parramatta have pulled out of the race for the Sharks and NSW ace. Bird has met with Newcastle, who have thrown big money at him, while the Sharks are confident of retaining him.
4. James Tedesco
* The NSW No.1 has been linked with Canterbury, St George Illawarra and the Sydney Roosters. He can demand top dollar and is reportedly asking for $900,000 a year.
5. Mitchell Moses
* The promising young five-eighth has stated he wants to go to a club that is likely to play finals football. Convincing him to stay will be one of new Tigers coach Ivan Cleary’s top priorities.
6. Josh Dugan
* The Dragons have reportedly shown interest in attracting Tedesco which brings into question Dugan’s position in the side. Has spoken about overseas rugby union as an option.
7. Aaron Woods
* The heart and soul of the Tigers – and the joint venture is doing everything to retain their skipper. Has reportedly received interest from the Warriors.
8. Luke Brooks
* In a similar to position to the Tigers’ other three off-contract stars – is asking for a big pay day and the club is trying to work out how to fit him under the cap.
9. Josh Reynolds
* Beloved at Belmore but under pressure to stay. He and Moses Mbye have been criticised for not taking greater control. If the Dogs chase Cronk or Foran, then the writing’s on the wall. Could he make a switch to hooker?
10. Gareth Widdop
* Ben Hunt will arrive at Wollongong next year on a million-dollar-per-season contract to be the Dragons’ No.1 playmaker. Where does that leave Widdop? Has been in arguably career best form over the first five rounds.