The Brisbane Broncos have reportedly landed its biggest target, with Queensland Origin star Kurt Capewell signing a three year deal.
WWOS reported the story with the 27-year-old Penrith Panthers star reportedly verbally agreeing to the deal from the 2022 season.
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It’s a massive signing for the Broncos who are at “rock bottom” having claimed the club’s first wooden spoon last year and currently sitting in 16th in 2021.
Capewell, who will line up in the centres in Sunday’s second State of Origin match, has become one of the NRL’s most impressive back rowers despite an injury hit 2020.
He debuted for Queensland in last seasons’ shock series win.
Capewell previously played 65 games over four seasons for the Cronulla Sharks before linking with the Panthers and going to the Grand Final.
It comes just under 24 hours since incoming head of football Ben Ikin told Fox League’s NRL 360 in his final episode as host that Capewell was top of his wishlist when he linked with the club.
“Jeez it’d be good to get him,” Ikin said.
“I just think as a Queenslander and a guy who lives the standards you want coming out of a good system, he’d be a magnificent pick-up.”
It’s interesting timing for a signing however with coach Kevin Walters under pressure, reports of a player revolt within the team and eight more players reportedly set to be moved on from the team.
On Tuesday, The Daily Telegraph’s Dean Ritchie told Sky Sports Radio’s Big Sports Breakfast that Alex Glenn, John Asiata, Dale Copley, Ben Te’o, Jamayne Isaako, Brodie Croft, Corey Oates and Richie Kennar are all on the outer.
This comes after reports that Tevita Pangai Jr., Anthony Milford and Matt Lodge have all been told they can look elsewhere.
Lodge hit back at the club saying if they don’t want him, seeing he’s contracted until 2024, they have to sort out a transfer, according to The Courier Mail.
It comes as criticism continues on the Broncos and coach Walters allowing Reece Walsh to walk, as he now prepares for his State of Origin debut after just seven first grade games with the New Zealand Warriors.
Walters has also faced criticism from within after reports of a player revolt.
Players reportedly told the newspaper Walters was “awkward” with his communication, “vague and inconsistent in his messaging” as well as failing to deliver feedback.
The Broncos have also been linked to the likes of Josh Hodgson, Dale Finucane and Jaydn Su’A, having already secured the services of unwanted Souths half Adam Reynolds and Storm centre Brenko Lee, while Broncos gun Kotoni Staggs has also re-signed.