Knights pushing for immediate Garrick release; Dogs snare Titans powerhouse: Transfer Whispers

Knights pushing for immediate Garrick release; Dogs snare Titans powerhouse: Transfer Whispers

The Knights are reportedly pushing Manly powerbrokers to grant Reuben Garrick an immediate release.

Meanwhile, the Bulldogs have reportedly signed a Titans powerhouse who stands at over two-metres tall.

Read below for all the latest Transfer Whispers!

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KNIGHTS RAMP UP GARRICK PURSUIT

The Knights are reportedly pushing the Sea Eagles to grant Reuben Garrick an immediate release hoping to unlock marquee man Kalyn Ponga.

The 25-year-old’s move to the Hunter would see him wear the No.1 jersey and Ponga switch to the halves and according to The Daily Telegraph, talks between the clubs are continuing.

Garrick is contracted until the end of the 2023 season and if Manly refuse the release request, Newcastle will have to wait until he hits the open market on November 1.

Reports suggest the Knights won’t be interested in signing Garrick if he is only available from 2024 onwards, seeking an immediate transfer.

Following Tex Hoy’s departure, the Knights don’t have a worthy fullback to take over at the back and allow Ponga to get his hands on the ball more in the halves.

Meanwhile, superstar fullback Tom Trbojevic will return for Manly and shift Garrick back to the wing.

The man who has played 91 games for the Sea Eagles could command fullback money if he makes a move, and Manly will reportedly consider a release if he expresses a desire to wear the No.1 jersey.

The Sea Eagles also have young gun Tolu Koula who has impressed for Tonga at fullback, as well as rising star Kaeo Weekes, who could replace Trbojevic if needed.

Manly have been front and centre of the headlines during a turbulent period for the club and may decide against releasing one of their best players before their new coach arrives.

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BULLDOGS SNAP UP TITANS YOUNG GUN

The Bulldogs have reportedly signed Titans forward Isaac Matalavea-Booth, a prop with “great potential” according to rugby league supremo Phil Gould.

The 20-year-old is a hulking figure, standing at over two metres tall and weighing 120 kilograms.

Injuries and Covid-19 stopped him from taking the field in recent years, but Gould clearly saw enough to hand him a contract.

“Isaac is a young forward with great potential,” Gould said to WWOS.

“I liked him from the moment I met him. I’m looking forward to him coming to the Bulldogs to further his development.”

Matalavea-Booth attended famous rugby league nursery Keebra Park High School and was scouted by the Titans during his time there.