The Mole: ‘Enticing’ Proposal May Draw Cooper Cronk to Perth for Unexpected Bears Position

Don’t be surprised if the Perth Bears attempt a stunning recruitment of Cooper Cronk as they gear up for their entry into the league.

The former Storm and Roosters premiership-winning halfback is regarded as one of the sharpest minds in rugby league. High-ranking officials in Western Australia view him as an ideal candidate for a Phil Gould-style director of football position.

With immense respect across the sport and connections in all the right circles, Cronk’s potential move would certainly shake things up.

Additionally, Cronk’s family connection to Perth—his wife Tara Rushton is a local—could play a role in his decision.

Whilst no official approach has been made, Cronk will have to consider if he wants to trade in his comfortable Fox League position for a role that comes with its fair share of pressure.

However, he has always embraced a challenge, and should the Bears reach out, he could find the opportunity too appealing to decline.

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‘Nasty Battle’ Brewing at NRL HQ

A turbulent conflict is unfolding behind the scenes at rugby league HQ, with tension rising between some of the sport’s influential player managers and NRL executives.

ARLC chief Peter V’landys has urged a crackdown on agents and their dubious methods, resulting in multiple managers facing proposed suspensions and fines of late.

However, the managers are bracing for a fierce clash with Paul Massey, the NRL official in charge of the player agent accreditation system.

Prepare for potential legal battles in the weeks ahead.

MANLY FACES HALL OF FAME LOSS

Penrith and Canberra are leading the race for one of the brightest halfback talents in the league—Sea Eagles Jersey Flegg captain Callum Dowell.

While Manly boasts an impressive lineup in the halves, including Jamal Fogarty from the Raiders and talented youngsters Joey Walsh and Onitoni Large, the potential exit of veteran Daly Cherry-Evans has raised concerns. Fans are not pleased about losing such a promising local junior.

Manly has presented Dowell with a modest offer to remain, but he can secure a significantly better deal elsewhere, making this an attractive option with limited opportunities at Brookvale.

‘ACE UP THE SLEEVE’ IN TIGER TRANSFER HUNT

The competition is heating up for one of the league’s most promising young hookers, Tallyn Da Silva, and the Bulldogs may have an advantage in their quest for the Tigers player.

Da Silva maintains a close friendship with former Tigers standout Lachie Galvin, which could lead him to follow his mate to Belmore.

With dummy-half Reed Mahoney expected to depart the Bulldogs during the summer, Da Silva is positioned perfectly to fit seamlessly into Cameron Ciraldo’s squad.

On the flip side, the Tigers may land Bulldogs halfback Toby Sexton in a potential player exchange.