The Sydney Morning Herald
NRL trials LIVE: Sharks take early lead against Knights as pre-season challenge continues in Gosford
NRL trials LIVE: Sharks take early lead against Knights as pre-season challenge continues in Gosford
Canberra Raiders chase Leilua as price tag soars
In a surprising twist, the Canberra Raiders have thrown their hat into the ring to secure the talented Luciano Leilua from the North Queensland Cowboys.
Leilua, a powerful forward, has found himself out of favor in Townsville, with a number of players vying for minutes in the back-row.
This dissatisfaction has led Leilua to request an exit from the club, seeking greener pastures elsewhere.
The Raiders had previously shown interest in Leilua last year, but their attempts were thwarted by coach Todd Payten.
Second club enter race for Leilua as forward chases high price tag
The Canberra Raiders have reportedly joined the race for disgruntled North Queensland Cowboys second-rower Luciano Leilua.
The powerhouse forward, who is seemingly out of favour in Townsville with Heilum Luki, Kulikefu Finefuiaki and State of Origin player Jeremiah Nanai also competing for minutes in the club's back-rower, is understood to have requested a way out of the club and the final two years of his deal.
It is believed he had previously done so for the first time mid last year, with the Raiders showing some interest then too, although the request was blocked by coach Todd Payten.
