Storm win race for Cooper Bai as Titans forward agrees to three-year deal

Melbourne have won the battle for Cooper Bai, with the Titans forward agreeing to terms on a three-year deal to join the Storm from 2028 until the end of 2030. The Roosters and PNG Chiefs were also in the race, but Bai, like Nathan Cleary, has turned down the Chiefs, despite his family's ties to PNG. He agreed to join the Storm last year before backing out during the cooling-off period, but now believes Craig Bellamy's coaching will help him reach his potential. Bai is also in talks with the Titans about an immediate release for 2027, but Gold Coast are expected to demand a player swap in return, with Maroons forward Trent Loiero identified as their ideal target. The signing is a boost for Melbourne as they work to keep Cameron Munster, Harry Grant and Stefano Utoikamanu.

By Peter Badel, Travis Meyn, CODE Sports — read the full story