Signings watch: Tigers set to secure Luai replacement

With Jarome Luai leaving the Wests Tigers in 2028, it appears the Wests Tigers have secured his replacement in the Dolphins' Jake Averillo.

As the 25-year-old approaches the end of his contract at the conclusion of the season, several Sydney clubs have thrown their hat into the ring to secure his services.

Some of the clubs included Cronulla, Manly and St. George Illawarra, with the Dolphins also keen to re-sign.

But it appears the Tigers have blown their competitors out of the water, according to the News Corp journalist, with what seems to be an offer too good to refuse.

“The Wests Tigers came late to this discussion as far as being able to report it,” Riccio explained on SEN’s Front Office with Vossy.

“In the past week, we've been aware that Jake Averillo has been talking to rival clubs, and they have been the St. George Illawarra Dragons and the Cronulla Sharks.

“The Dolphins have been keen to retain Averillo, also the Perth Bears (are) showing interest and the Manly Sea Eagles.

“But one by one, they've slowly dropped away and basically unable to compete (with) what we believe is a three-year deal on the table from the Wests Tigers of significant money for Jake Averillo.

“So, I think the Wests Tigers are in the box seat here unless something dramatically changes from a Dolphins perspective, where they come to the party with a late, late offer.

“I think it's the Tigers in the box seat to pick up Jake Averillo.”

This season, the centre scored six tries whilst running for 176 metres per game.

Having rested from last week's bye, Averillo and the Dolphins travel north to face the Cowboys in Townsville.

They’ll face off this Saturday with kick-off at 5:30pm AEST.