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:
1. New Zealand Warriors
Born in Auckland, a return to the Warriors would be an incredible way for Taupau to end his NRL career.
The Warriors, for all their talent, lack a bench prop that will have opposition teams looking over their shoulder.
Truthfully he would probably have to be willing to accept a bench role given the Matt Lodge and Addin Fonua-Blake run-on partnership, but to move home, may be well worth it.
The Warriors have shown they are willing to sign players at the back-end of their careers, especially for local players, so this makes sense.
Verdict
There's usually an obvious, standout option on these lists, but here I don't see one. I see two.
Warriors or Dolphins.
Wayne Bennett and the Fins are going to need some experienced pinch hitters to ensure they can do from round one, 2023.
The Warriors need an aggressive bench option and (Covid allowing) present Taupau with a brilliant opportunity for a swansong back home, if he chooses.
Either option would make the world of sense, but as if I had to put money on today - Warriors.
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.