Signings watch: Could the Bulldogs still sign Bula?

Despite re-signing their starting fullback Connor Tracey, Michael Carayannis believes that this does not close the door on the Bulldogs' pursuit of Wests Tigers' Jahream Bula.

After a strong debut season in 2023, which saw him claim the RLPA Rookie of the Year, the Tigers made sure to lock up the fullback on a four-year deal worth between $2.7-$2.8 million.

With Bula having a mutual option for 2027, the fullback's future has been heavily speculated upon, with the Dragons and Bulldogs reportedly interested in his services.

However, the Bulldogs announced on Wednesday that Tracey extended his stay at Belmore through to 2028, seemingly putting an end to their chances at signing Bula.

But Carayannis remains unconvinced that Tracey’s re-signing has ended the Bulldogs pursuit of Bula.

“I'm just saying the Connor Tracey decision for mine doesn't impact a potential play at fullback for Canterbury,” he told SEN’s Kick Off.

“We've seen Connor Tracey play a lot of centre during his time at the Sharks. He's at a good price point where you can move him around, and it doesn't hurt your salary cap.

“Everyone's saying that you know because they've re-signed Connor Tracey, it means the Jahream Bula discussions are over.

“I didn't see it that way, not at all, because if they hypothetically do sign during Bula, you’d just slot Tracey in at six (or) at centre.

“He's played all those positions in the back line for a while throughout his career.

“For me, it's not an endpoint (on Bula). It's not like they've given him (Tracey) a million dollars and gone, you're our long-term fullback. There's nothing like that.

“So, it doesn't put an end point on any speculation regarding Jahream Bula for mine.”

This season, the Tigers' No. 1 has scored four tries and managed four try assists whilst averaging 178 run metres.

Bula will next feature for the Tigers on Saturday night when they host the Brisbane Broncos at Campbelltown Sports Stadium.

SEN will have live coverage of the match through Broncos Radio, which can be heard on SENQ and on the SEN app from 7:10pm AEST.

Kick-off takes place 7:35pm.