Try-scoring hero open to joining inaugural PNG side

South Sydney's try-scoring hero Alex Johnston has hinted at a desire to join the PNG Chiefs in 2028.

Johnston, 31, is signed with the Rabbitohs until the end of 2027, allowing him to negotiate with rivals from November 1, including the PNG Chiefs.

The Rabbitohs' flyer is currently a one-club player, debuting for South Sydney in 2014, and recently became the game's greatest ever try-scorer.

Johnston is of PNG descent and has represented the country on 12 occasions, including captaning the international team.

Given his history with the nation, the record-breaking winger could be an ideal first signing for the new expansion side, and has indicated a desire to be that first signing for the inaugurual side.

“I’m signed for this year and next year at Souths, and after that, if I’ve still got some miles to go in the legs, I’ll definitely be talking to the Chiefs,” Johnston revealed to Nine’s 100% Footy.

“It would be pretty cool to be one of the first signed for a Papua New Guinean team.

“They absolutely love footy over there, and I’ve got a good relationship with the fans and the prime minister over there. I think that’s something I’d look forward to.”

Johnston has scored 213 tries, surpassing Ken Irvine, in 245 NRL games.