Signings watch: NSW representative spotted in PNG

Having already signed Jarome Luai and Alex Johnston, the PNG Chiefs have their next big-name recruit in their sights.

Following their loss to the Cowboys on Saturday, Roosters’ star Connor Watson and his partner Kiana were spotted at Port Moresby Airport with the club’s CEO, Lorna McPherson.

The utility comes out of contract at the end of next season, but was granted permission by the Roosters to speak with rival clubs before November 1 after Reece Robson became the club's starting hooker.

The 29-year-old, who has played for NSW on five occasions, has also been rumoured with the St. George Illawarra Dragons, Manly Sea Eagles and the Perth Bears.

Speaking on his playing future prior to his visit, Matty Johns believes Watson would be a great signing for the NRL’s 19th team.

“He would be an ideal signing for PNG,” Johns said on SEN’s Morning Glory with Matty Johns.

“He’d be great for Manly, no doubt, but he would be the ideal player for PNG.

“We’ve said before with PNG, you don’t just want good players. You’re going to need really good people.

“When you’re living in a compound and in each other’s pockets, one arsehole can ruin everything.”

The PNG Chiefs will enter the NRL in 2028.