The Cronulla Sharks look set to re-sign forward Briton Nikora despite considerable rival interest.
According to reports, the 24-year-old was being chased by the Tigers, Warriors and Eels with his current deal coming at the end of the season.
While some believed the Kiwi was set to head home and play for the Warriors, The Sydney Morning Herald’s Adrian Proszenko says Nikora will stay put at Shark Park.
“Briton Nikora. Incorrect,” Proszenko said in response to whether Nikora will join the Warriors on SEN 1170 Afternoons.
“He has just been named as part of Michael Maguire's New Zealand squad, but he will be staying put.
“A little bit of breaking news, but they are very close to sorting something out with the Sharks. He wants to stay, likely for three years.
“There was interest from other clubs. The Tigers were quite keen and Parramatta had a little sniff as well. The deal isn't done, but it's very close.”
With Nikora all but certain to stay, Proszenko says the club will next set their sights on deciding the futures of Wade Graham and Andrew Fifita.
“They (the Sharks) are working through a number of guys off-contract,” Proszenko said.
“Jesse Colquhorn has just been done, Todd Hazleton will be done, they will want to have a look at Wade Graham and Andrew Fifita over the next four to six weeks, and there is a question mark over Tolman.
“But certainly Nikora, he will stay.”
A three-year extension would see Nikora remain with Cronulla until the end of the 2025 season.
He’s been named to start in the second-row for Cronulla against Gold Coast in Coffs Harbour on Saturday afternoon.