Here’s a breakdown of the Perth Bears’ (the NRL’s upcoming expansion franchise) key signing targets as they prepare for their debut in 2027:
Marquee Targets Confirmed in Media Reports
Recent reporting highlights three standout names regarded as the top marquee targets for the Bears:
- Cameron Munster – The Queensland captain and Storm stalwart. Reports indicate that the Bears have already approached him, and Melbourne may release him—but exclusively to Perth. Estimated salary: $1.5–$2 million per year. (News.com.au, FOX SPORTS)
- Tino Fa’asuamaleaui – Gold Coast Titans captain. His current contract includes an option making him potentially available for recruitment. (News.com.au, FOX SPORTS)
- Blayke Brailey – Cronulla Sharks’ highly rated hooker. He’s rejected a contract extension and could become available from November, with interest from the Bears expected at up to $1 million. (News.com.au, FOX SPORTS)
These three are widely acknowledged as the Bears’ top targets. (FOX SPORTS)
Broader Off-Contract Talent Pool
Looking beyond marquee names, there’s a considerable roster of potential recruits—players becoming available from November 1, 2026—who could bolster the inaugural squad:
From SEN’s “180 Free Agents” list: (SEN)
- Payne Haas (Broncos; prop) – In his mid-20s and widely regarded as elite in his position.
- Tom Trbojevic, James Tedesco, Harry Grant and Lachlan Galvin are also among notable names available.
Additional sources (e.g., FoxSports and Zero Tackle) point to strong targets across all positions: (FOX SPORTS, Zero Tackle)
Key Options by Position:
| Position | Potential Targets |
|---|---|
| Hooker | Blayke Brailey, Reed Mahoney, Jacob Liddle, Ryley Smith, Tallyn Da Silva, Matt Arthur |
| Front Row / Prop | Toby Rudolf, Griffin Neame, Lindsay Smith, Jack Todd |
| Back Row / Edge | Zac Hosking, Beau Fermor, Thomas Cant |
| Lock (13) | Naufahu Whyte, Lachlan Hubner, Hamish Stewart, Morgan Smithies, Cameron McInnes |
| Spine / Backs | Ryan Papenhuyzen, Keano Kini, Lachlan Galvin, Herbie Farnworth, Jahrome Hughes, Luke Metcalf, Sandon Smith, Reed Mahoney, Tallyn Da Silva (Nine, Zero Tackle) |
Zero Tackle suggests a recruitment mix focusing on early impact and future potential—for instance, securing young talent like Galvin and hooker Tallyn Da Silva for the spine, supported by forwards like Lindsay Smith, David Fifita, Thomas Cant, and lock Lachlan Hubner. (Zero Tackle)
Summary: Who Are the Key Targets?
Marquee Priorities:
- Cameron Munster
- Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
- Blayke Brailey
Additional Strategic Signings:
- Payne Haas, Lachlan Galvin, James Tedesco, Tom Trbojevic
- Spine options: Jahrome Hughes, Ryan Papenhuyzen
- Hookers: Reed Mahoney, Jacob Liddle, Tallyn Da Silva
- Forwards: Lindsay Smith, Toby Rudolf, Thomas Cant, Zac Hosking
- Versatile pack members: Naufahu Whyte, Lachlan Hubner, Beau Fermor
Context & Constraints
- Official recruitment windows open from November 1, 2026, when off-contract negotiations can begin. (FOX SPORTS, News.com.au)
- The Bears must contend with salary cap pressures and limited availability in an already tight market. (News.com.au)
- Opting for a mix of marquee signings and emerging talent could be their best strategy to establish both competitive balance and long-term growth.
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