For a long time during 2021 it looked as though Martin Taupau would be plying his trade in colours other than the Maroon of the Sea Eagles in 2022.
Despite a year being left on his deal, it was fait accompli that big Marty was on his way out.
Except nothing ever eventuated and he will almost certainly run out in the eight or ten jersey for the Sea Eagles come Round 1.
Given the talk, and the fact his contract is reportedly set to expire at the end of this season, the talk will start again.
Below are the five most likely destinations for Marty Tauapu for 2023 and beyond:
2. The Dolphins
The Dolphins are going to be linked to every off-contract player this season, including Martin Taupau.
Thus far they've failed to land a big fish. Taupau, at this stage of his career, is not that big fish. In his mid-twenties, he absolutely would have been.
Fans of the NRL's newest club will want to be competitive right away. At current, this looks as though it may be difficult.
Wayne Bennett will need to pad his side with experienced players with a look to the short-term. Not every contract issued will be a four-year deal.
Taupau is the kind of player you could sign tomorrow, plug into a run on spot, or bench spot, and be sure what you're going to get.
Pairing Taupau with a young prop could pay big dividends. He has the experience and has developed the cool head to mentor young props.
Don't be shoked if Bennett looks for a one or two-year deal with the veteran. It is a stop-gap option but ensures a monster prop from day one.
I reckon the big man would be a great signing for the Dolphins. 200 game veteran, he’ll give you 150m and barely misses a tackle and no real injury concerns. Sounds exactly like a Bennett type player.