Roosters emerge as favourites to land Storm prop Stefano Utoikamanu

The Roosters have emerged as favourites to sign Melbourne prop Stefano Utoikamanu, who has put contract talks with the Storm on hold until after the World Cup. Utoikamanu is yet to accept Melbourne's offer and is expected to command upwards of $1 million a season. The Roosters see him as a long-term partner and eventual successor for Lindsay Collins, and believe they can afford both him and Dolphins centre Herbie Farnworth from 2028 after farewelling several stars from their premiership side. The Storm view Utoikamanu as a priority re-signing alongside Harry Grant and Cameron Munster, and remain confident of keeping all three.

By Tyson Jackson, Brent Read, CODE Sports — read the full story