Former Queensland forward Joe Ofahengaue’s impending move from Brisbane to Wests Tigers is set to spark a transfer merry-go-round in coming days.
He has already updated his social media profile to describe himself as “ex Brisbane Bronco Player #212”.
Ofahengaue, who made an unexpected appearance at the Broncos’ first pre-season training session under new coach Kevin Walters on Monday, is finalising the terms of a release from the Broncos to join the Tigers.
Neither club has made an official announcement on the switch but it is likely to occur over the weekend.
The move will enable the Tigers to end an impasse with prop Josh Aloaia before his scheduled return to training next week by releasing him to Manly.
Brisbane are also likely to replace Ofahengaue with versatile former North Queensland forward John Asiata, who is unsigned and has been linked with a number of clubs for next season.
Tigers chairman Lee Hagipantelis indicated earlier this week that a resolution to the stand-off with Aloaia was expected soon and it is believed securing Ofahengaue as a replacement would trigger his release.
The Tigers last week signed former NSW centre James Roberts on a one-year contract with the option of a second year – a low risk deal that could prove to be a bargain if he regains the form that earned his Origin selection in 2018.
Another former Blues star James Tamou, who captained Penrith to the minor premiership and a grand final appearance, is the Tigers’ main recruit and the club has also signed highly rated young Parramatta forward Stefano Utoikamanu.
Source: NRL