Six NRL Players in Demand For 2024

From November 1, NRL players off contract at the end of 2023 can negotiate with rival clubs for the 2024 season. We take a look at six players who may test the market and sign elsewhere.

Herbie Farnworth (Brisbane Broncos)

Herbie Farnworth re-signed for the 2023 season back in May this year despite interest from rival clubs including new boys in the Dolphins. Ruptured biceps in June put to an end his NRL campaign having scored ten tries in twelve matches. Now having made his debut for England, he could command big bucks as his game continues to improve. Maybe the Dolphins will circle again as Farnworth’s preferred role is at fullback and it’s uncertain the Broncos can fulfil that promise long-term.

David Fifita (Gold Coast Titans)

It appears certain that David Fifita will hit the open market on November 1. The Titans haven’t been able to get the best out of the ball playing second rower throughout his stint at the club. Whether any other club is willing to fork out over $1.0 million (Australian) for the talented Tongan international remains to be seen. You could see the value of what Fifita could bring to several clubs struggling to attract talent such as the New Zealand Warriors, or Newcastle Knights. But the right fit may be at a more successful club, like the Roosters or Eels where he wouldn’t be the marquee player, but on a lot less dough.

David Klemmer (Newcastle Knights)

David Klemmer appears certain to be on his way out of Newcastle with rumours surfacing he will join the Wests Tigers. While he’s settled with his family in the Hunter and would like to continue at the club, the salary cap squeeze is on with Ponga and the Saifiti brothers on big contracts. With almost 200 career games under his belt, he would be a good acquisition for the Tigers, and you could see value in him returning back home to Belmore to finish off his career.

Dominic Young (Newcastle Knights)

21-year-old Dom Young might be the hottest young prospect to hit the open market on November 1. He has 18 tries in 26 games with the Knights and has already made a strong impression on the England World Cup campaign with four tries in two internationals. There’s media reports up to five clubs are interested in Young, with the Knights yet to table an offer. If the Knights don’t swoop soon, he may join a rival Sydney club. He would be perfect for a rebuilding Tigers side ahead of Benji Marshall’s reign as head coach.

Stephen Crichton (Penrith Panthers)

Penrith Panthers two-time premiership winner Stephen Crichton will come under close watch from rival clubs this summer. Both he and fellow Panther Brian To’o (also off contract) were linked with the Dolphins mid-season. But with Charlie Staines swapped for Tyrone Peachey, this may allow space for To’o, Crichton and Liam Martin to be retained. Crichton has 41 tries in 76 appearances for the Panthers. Which club wouldn’t want such backline quality at their club?

Luke Brooks (Wests Tigers)

If the rumours are correct, Luke Brooks will head to the Newcastle Knights and is heading towards and early release at Wests Tigers before the 2023 season starts. Then again, the same was touted at the same time last year. Despite having just under 200 games to his belt, it’s been an unhappy last few seasons at the Tigers as they slipped down the table from 9th spot in 2019, to 11th in 2020, 13th in 2021 and wooden spooners in 2022. A change of scenery might kickstart Brooks’ career.