The NRL season may be over, but the player market is already heating up ahead of November 1, with clubs beginning to shape their rosters for 2027 and beyond.
From player movement to changes behind the scenes, ESPN NRL Insider Isaac Issa has the latest whispers from around the competition.
Fa'alogo agrees to long-term Storm extension
Sua Fa'alogo has agreed to extend his stay at the Melbourne Storm through to the end of 2032, ESPN understands.
The agreement will keep the fullback in Melbourne for the next six seasons, securing a key figure in the Storm's long-term plans.
Fa'alogo's retention delivers a major boost for Melbourne ahead of the November 1 contracting window, with the club moving to lock down one of its most exciting talents.
Dolphins close in on Lemuelu extension, confident of keeping Farnworth
The Dolphins are closing in on a multi-year extension for Connelly Lemuelu as they also express confidence in retaining Herbie Farnworth.
ESPN understands Lemuelu is nearing an agreement to extend his stay despite interest from Canberra, Parramatta and Cronulla.
Securing the back-rower would deliver a retention boost for the Dolphins, with the length of the proposed deal yet to be confirmed.
The club is also understood to be confident it can retain Farnworth despite links to the Sydney Roosters.
While that confidence is yet to translate into a confirmed extension, keeping the English international alongside Lemuelu would help preserve key combinations on the Dolphins' left edge.
Eels edge ahead in Best race
Parramatta have emerged as the frontrunners to land Bradman Best, with multiple sources indicating the Newcastle centre is increasingly likely to join the Eels beyond 2027.
Best has been identified as a priority target for Parramatta, who are looking to bolster Jason Ryles' backline with an established representative star.
While a deal is yet to be confirmed, the Eels are understood to be in the box seat despite Newcastle's efforts to retain him with a lucrative extension.
Bulldogs unlikely to enter Walker race
Canterbury are unlikely to enter the race for Sam Walker, with the Bulldogs backing their existing halfback options ahead of the upcoming season.
Despite suggestions the club could emerge as a potential destination for Walker, it is understood Canterbury are taking a wait-and-see approach rather than preparing to launch a pursuit.
The Bulldogs' immediate focus remains on the internal battle for the No.7 jersey, with Mitch and Alex Conti set to compete for the role over the offseason.
Canterbury have not completely shut the door on a move should circumstances change, but their current position suggests they are unlikely to become an active contender for Walker's signature.
For now, the Bulldogs are content to watch how the situation unfolds.