The Mole: Roosters put Origin gun 'top of their list' as massive roster overhaul kicks into gear
Don't be surprised if the Roosters make a bid for Cowboys and Blues Origin hooker Reece Robson.
With Brandon Smith on the outer at Bondi Junction, the Roosters are on the lookout for a hooker - and sources have told Wide World of Sports that Robson is at the top of their list.
The 26-year-old has established himself as one of the toughest hookers in the game in recent seasons and was a key figure in the Blues' Origin triumph this year.
READ MORE: Gus' bold Tigers tip after $4m shake-up
READ MORE: Walsh's 'weird' reality without Ezra Mam
READ MORE: Addo-Carr secures new deal after axing
Robson is off contract at the end of 2025, meaning that rival clubs have been able to talk to him about 2026 since the start of this month.
Reece Robson celebrates after scoring a try during the Cowboys' round 26 clash with the Storm. Getty
Originally from Murwillumbah on the NSW north coast, Robson played two seasons with the Dragons before making the big time with the Cowboys.
He was named in the Australian squad for the recent Pacific Championships but failed to play a game.
xxx
The Titans are in danger of losing boom front-rower Josiah Pahulu to a Sydney club, with the Bulldogs leading the chase.
The Kiwi-born giant played 19 games in his rookie season and looks a real prospect.
The Dogs rate Pahulu highly, meeting with the youngster last week.
The 20-year-old former Queensland Under 19 forward doesn't come off contract until the end of next season and so is free to talk to rival clubs in the interim.
The Titans are desperate to keep Pahulu but will struggle to match the pulling power of the Sydney clubs after his signature.
xxx
Could journeyman Moses Mbye end up at premiers Penrith next season?
The 31-year-old former Bulldogs, Tigers and Dragons utility is currently with English club St Helens but is believed to be heading home next season for another crack at the NRL.
Moses Mbye shapes to pass the ball for the Dragons in 2023, his last season in the NRL. Mark Kolbe/Getty Images
A Queensland State of Origin representative in 2019, Mbye can play anywhere in the backline and would provide extra back-up for star halfback Nathan Cleary.
Mbye is close to Nathan's dad Ivan, having played under him at the Tigers.
xxx
Two veteran former NRL players have signed on to play in the NSW country in a big boost to bush footy.
Talented halfback Blake Austin, who had a fine career with Penrith, Wests Tigers, Canberra, Warrington, and Leeds, will play and help in junior development for Berkeley Vale Panthers on the Central Coast.
The club won just one game this tear but should do better with 33-year-old Austin, who also played two Tests for Great Britain, calling the shots.
Blake Austin in action for the Raiders in 2018 Getty
And Wyong Roos have picked up enigmatic centre Joey Leilua.
The massive 32-year-old centre has also done the rounds, playing for the Roosters, Knights, Raiders, Wests Tigers and Featherstone Rovers.
It's great to see two such experienced players putting back into the game, which is struggling in the bush.
