Luke Keary’s surprise move to French Super League club Catalans may unleash one of rugby league’s most feared hitmen back onto the NRL.
Former Roosters hard man and Tongan skipper Sio Siua Taukeiaho has been with Catalans since the start of last season but is homesick and wants out.
Catalans has told the 32-year-old they won’t release him from his two-year deal until they come up with a big name signing to replace him – and his former teammate Keary could be the answer to Taukeiaho’s prayers.
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The rampaging prop, who won two titles at the Roosters, has barely played at Catalans due to a serious foot injury.
Sio Siua Taukeiaho in action for the Sydney Roosters. Getty
He came close to signing with the Bulldogs late last year but the deal fell through. He is finally over the injury after surgery last December and is hopeful of starting playing again this weekend.
Several NRL clubs are desperate for an experienced front-rower and a bidding war is certain to begin should he get the green light to return to the NRL from Catalans.
The Roosters may even show interest themselves, with a host of players leaving including veteran prop Jared Waerea-Hargreaves.
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BRIGHT FUTURE BREWING AT NEWCASTLE
Knights fans should keep a close watch on the under 19 State of Origin clash at Leichhardt Oval this Thursday night.
The club has a huge opinion of all three of its representatives in the squad and the trio have been earmarked for spots in the club’s full-time roster in 2025.
Adam O’Brien could have some fresh blood in 2025. Ian Hitchcock via Getty Images
Second-rower Jermaine McEwen is the pick of the litter and one of the Blues’ big hopes of upsetting the strong Maroons outfit.
A talented wide ball-runner, he has been pencilled in to make it at the club for some time despite his tender years.
The other two, utility back Connor Votano and middle forward Cody Hopwood, are only 18 so have been selected to play against opponents a year older, such is their talent.
Both have been standouts in the Knights’ pathways and are also expected to be part of a new-look Knights squad in 2025.
KEEPING IT IN THE FAMILY
Still on that Blues under 19 team, and Penrith brothers Jesse and Casey McLean are two players attracting plenty of eyeballs from rival clubs.
Winger Jesse, the elder of the two at 19, has already had a taste of NRL footy and showed his class with a memorable try against the Dragons recently.
Jesse McLean in action against the Dragons. Getty
And Casey, two years younger and a centre, also looks a fine prospect, playing well above his age – but the pair won’t be joining the growing list of talented youngsters leaving the Panthers.
I’m hearing the club knows they have two special kids on their hands and are set to extend and upgrade them soon.
EX-ORIGIN STAR ON THE MOVE
Which former State of Origin player is offside with his teammates and unlikely to play first grade again this season?
He’s currently with a Sydney club but is certain to be on the move next year – his ego and poor attitude have upset too many players.
Problems could arise when he tries to find a new club, however – the rugby league world is a small bubble and any club that does its due diligence won’t touch him.