The Mole: Melbourne leads race to sign Sam Kasiano

Sam Kasiano made a secret trip to Melbourne last night and the Storm have become the clear favourites to sign the Bulldogs giant for 2018.

Kasiano is under contract to the Bulldogs for next season but the club has given him permission to 'explore his options'.

That’s rugby league language for 'you are free to leave' - and half a dozen club as are keen on the giant prop.

Kasiano travelled to Melbourne with his manager Mario Tartak late last night and was impressed with his tour of the club facilities.

The giant prop can be among the most destructive players in the game and would thrive under the strict regime of Storm coach Craig Bellamy.

The Bulldogs need to shed players after signing internationals Aaron Woods and Kieran Foran for 2018 and Kasiano is one player who has been earmarked to be moved on.

Melbourne, on the other hand, are cashed up following the impending loss of star players Cooper Cronk and Tohu Harris.