Israel Folau

St George Illawarra Dragons make bid for Israel Folau

Could the controversial star be back in the NRL?

Published by
Ben Cotton

The St George Illawarra Dragons are looking to bring Israel Folau back into the NRL.

According to multiple reports, the Dragons have submitted a formal request to the NRL to register the 31-year old's contract.

The Sydney Morning Herald's Michael Chammas reports that the Rev V are hoping to sign the controversial star to a two-year deal, with the NRL governing body now set to consider whether or not they allow his return.

However, it is believed that no formal offer has yet been tabled by the Dragons.

ARLC chairman Peter V'landys previously indicated that Folau would not be welcome back in the NRL due to his controversial views.

Folau's multi-million dollar contract with Rugby Australia was terminated in 2019 over homophobic slurs on social media.

But the NRL has reportedly since softened their stance on the matter and indicated to the Dragons that they will consider the application.

“We are always on the lookout for great players,” St George Illawarra chief executive Ryan Webb told The Sydney Morning Herald.

“We have enquired with the NRL about Israel and we will work with them to hopefully see him join us in 2021.

"We understand there will be a range of opinions in regards to this decision, but we believe he would be a good addition to our club."

Folau is currently contracted to the Catalans Dragons but is reportedly unsure on if he will return due to personal reasons.

He last played in the NRL in 2010 for the Brisbane Broncos and has played a total of 91 league games.

Published by
Ben Cotton