The Bulldogs are reportedly eager to offer young forward Jacob Preston a long-term deal after the 21-year-old’s blistering start to his NRL career.
After just five rounds, Preston is emerging as a leading contender for rookie of the year honours, scoring two tries during last weekend’s golden point victory over Cowboys.
The back-rower has already signed until the end of 2024, but according to a Wide World of Sports report, the Bulldogs are already in contact with Preston’s about a contract extension.
Meanwhile, Preston is nursing a hand injury, with Bulldogs boss Phil Gould claiming he was “doubtful” for Friday’s game against the Rabbitohs.
Watch every game of every round of the 2023 NRL Telstra Premiership Season LIVE on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Start your free trial now >
Bulldogs take out Golden Point thriller | 02:51
ROOSTERS FIGHTING TO KEEP PAULO
Sydney Roosters winger Jaxson Paulo is reportedly yet to take up an option on his two-year deal, meaning he could be on the lookout for his third club in as many years.
After a brief stint with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, the 23-year-old joined the Roosters on a two-year contract with the second season an option in his favour.
Paulo has scored five tries in four games with the Tricolours, including a match-winning double against the Warriors, and the Roosters could be facing a fight to reward the breakout star, according to The Daily Telegraph.
EELS STAR APPROACHES RUGBY AUSTRALIA
Parramatta centre Waqa Blake has reportedly offered his services to Rugby Australia as the Eels look for an X-factor, according to Channel 9’s Danny Weidler.
“I don’t know if Waqa Blake is necessarily on that hit-list, but he has been offered to Eddie Jones and rugby union,” Weidler told 100% Footy on Monday evening.
“There’s been a lot of talk about his future at Parramatta, and Parramatta is looking for X-factor players with Clint Gutherson being moved to the centres because its centres aren’t strong.
“Well, it appears that maybe Waqa Blake is reading that information, and there has been a reach-out by his management to Eddie Jones.
“I don’t know whether he would be a player Eddie Jones would go for.”
Weidler suggested Penrith halfback Nathan Cleary was on Wallabies coach Eddie Jones’ hit-list, while Bulldogs five-eighth Matt Burton has also been touted as a potential “smash hit” in rugby union.
“If Nathan Cleary goes to rugby union, I’ll fly to the moon,” Gould quipped.
“A million to one.”
