As we tick closer to the November 1st deadline, NRL clubs are beginning to lick their lips at some of the names about to officially enter "off-contract" status.
One of the players likely to have numerous sets of eyes on his future services is Sydney Roosters back-rower Angus Crichton.
All signs pointed to a return to the dark side of rugby union, but recent reports indicate that move is off.
With the Roosters seemingly resigned to letting him go, it's time to speculate on which sides will be in his manager's call log early next month.
For the purpose of this, I'm going to leave the Bulldogs off the list. They've been linked to every player on the market and at some stage, the money has to run out.
Below are five likely NRL landing spots for Angus Crichton:
4. Cronulla Sharks
Not for the first time I'm going to double down on the fact the Sharks are a big forward away from any sort of serious title chase.
If I'm the Sharks, I'm looking for a middle, but they've been linked with Angus Crichton in the past and I'd be shocked if they aren't again.
Crichton could be an option at 13, but looks a far more readymade replacement on the left edge with Teig Wilton moving into the middle.
Craig Fitzgibbon looks happy with what he has, but with major salary cap space opening up for 2025, I'd be shocked if he didn't look to recruit.
There would, almost certainly, be a relationship from their time working together at Bondi.
We heard nothing but positive from Roosters players when it came to their former defensive coach. You'd have to think this would be an advantage.
Given the moves on the radar in the Shire, there should be cap space available to be well in the talks.
If Crichton is looking for a new club, a short shift south wouldn't be difficult. Plus the Fitzgibbon factor comes into it.
