I think this would seem to be the case, but still could go to prop this year or next, it did take JP a couple of years to really adjust from back to front row. 13 this year then gradually move to prop .

if Ikahihifo comes in from Huddersfield that may complete our squad for next year, maybe have a space for some in season signings if we off load a few. If merrin is at 13 for next year anyway we do need one more prop for next season.

yes he was very good back end of 2017 really looked like a new pack leader, but was pretty average to poor last year, new coach new confidence hopefully.

I think by the end of the year most players were busted mentally and physically to be honest. The few quality players which were still taking the field were having to do far too much. It's not about throwing the baby out with the bathwater: the signings we've made are addressing most of the issues we had.

Good work Brodie123.

Who's the other NRL prop?

If the Ilkafau rumours are true he isnt an NRL prop.

Difficult to separate the wheat from the chaff on here mate. Fair play, you called it right.

My pal saw Brian Noble in Guiseley yesterday and he told him that Leeds have signed Taupau. He reckons it’s 100% as Toronto wanted him for a season, but he chose Leeds. I’m not having it myself.

It doesn't sound plausable. But you never know, he want's out at Manly, Manly want to clear. Who is to say he wouldn't accept less money just for one season over here, with Manly chipping in some money (like the Merrin deal), that then makes it not a Marquee and more affordable.

I had thought the only way we would get Taupau would be on a one year short term contract, as much as I want to see the club build a good squad for the long term I'd be over the moon with Taupau for one year TBH

I agree. At the end of the day we have good youngsters coming through, who need to work with good players to reach potential. They don't necessarily need these players for 3 and 4 years. Working with him for one year to get a couple of these accustomed and up to speed might be a big plus going forward, then that homegrown becomes the long term shirt holder instead.

I could understand a "no thanks" to Kear. That he would somehow end up telling him what his plans were instead sounds less likely. And that Kear would then pass them on to random punters?