The Wests Tigers’ hopes of breaking their NRL finals drought could get a major boost as negotiations continue on a mid-season move for 2019 recruit Moses Mbye.
The Tigers last week confirmed they had secured their long-term fullback after signing Mbye on a four-year deal beginning next season.
However it is understood the Tigers remain in talks to bring in the Canterbury No.1 after returning home from his stint in camp with the Queensland State of Origin team.
Mbye informed Bulldogs teammates of his deal before the squad broke for last week’s bye.
“Moey addressed us as a team and he told us personally before he came out and made it all official in the media,” Hopoate said on Tuesday.
“It’s the world rugby league is. Players come and go.
“Unfortunately he’s departing at season’s end. He’s told us that all his efforts and energy’s into playing for Canterbury for the remainder of the season. We’re going to need him.”
Having failed to make the finals since 2011, the Tigers are currently two points outside the top eight in ninth spot ahead of Sunday’s clash against Cronulla.
Mbye had two more years left on his current deal with the Bulldogs, however it is believed the club will lug $300,000 of his back-ended contract in his first two seasons at the Tigers.
It comes a fortnight after the Bulldogs informed stakeholders of the club’s precarious salary cap position, which included revelations that up to 10 players are on back-ended contracts.
Mbye’s early exit ahead of the June 30 deadline could allow the Bulldogs to advance payments on some of those deals.
Hopoate admitted Mbye’s departure would be a tough pill to swallow following his successful move from the halves to fullback under coach Dean Pay this year.
“It’s tough for the club to lose someone of Moey’s calibre. He’s a great player, and you’re right, he’s been outstanding for us at the back,” he said.
“It’s always sad to see one of your teammates and friends leave, but he’s got to do what’s best for him and his family.”
Hopoate would likely return to fullback if the Mbye move comes through.
“If it comes to that, I’d be happy to. I honestly haven’t looked that far. I’m just focused on what I can do now and how I can be a better player for the club right now,” he said.
“I love playing fullback because you get to roam but then again I love playing in the centres, you get to build combinations with your edge.”