As we approach the magic August 1 deadline, NRL rosters for 2023 finalise and become locked in.
Inevitably this play a role in deciding where players land for the next year and beyond.
It often leads to players suddenly becoming available also, which seems as if it could be the case for Roosters prop Matt Lodge.
He announced during the week that he would not be in the tri-colours for 2024, which should kick off a chase for his services.
Below are five potential landing spots for Matt Lodge.
5. Warrington Wolves (Super League)
Full disclosure I don't know if any potential visa issue would be affected or even possible here. For the sake of this let's assume it wouldn't be an issue.
Matt Lodge is 28 and arguably at the peak of his powers as a footballer.
There are 12 sides in the Super League competition - at least nine of them that would be improved by the arrival of Matt Lodge.
Warrington are almost certainly going to end their unsuccessful relationship with Josh McGuire due to repeated issues, so they could instantly be the team I'd link here.
McGuire wouldn't be cheap and Lodge would have to adjust his asking price if he wanted a fresh start across the pond.
I don't know if a direct swap would 100 per cent fit in but it wouldn't be that far off.
Huddersfield and Hull could use some reinforcements while the once mighty Leeds Rhinos are in desperate need for some new faces.
Officially I'd say Warrington would be the most likely here with Leeds a close second given their want to quickly return to the top.
Matt Lodge is only just 28, so I’d think he’d have three good years (injury allowing) before his performance tails off. I know nothing about Warrington and Super League, so I’ll ignore them.
Newcastle have been worse off for losing Klemmer, and Isuspect that they have already realised that letting him go was a bad move. I think that if they can scrape up the cap-space then Matt may head up the M1.
Lodge could provide the aggression & oomph that current Sharks forwards donโt have.