Izack Tago is the latest target for the fast-rebuilding St George Illawarra Dragons, with the out-of-favour Panther possibly available to join as soon as next season.
The 24-year-old has largely been dropped from Ivan Cleary’s starting lineup this season, though he is stepping into play for the injured Casey McLean in what could prove to be a battle for the year’s minor premiership when Penrith take on the New Zealand Warriors on Friday.
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When McLean is fit again, though, Tago will be the man that makes way – and it could mean he’s allowed to leave two years early.
The star outside back has played seven Test matches for Samoa, been in the New South Wales State of Origin squad, and won three premierships with the Panthers between 2022 and 2024, and is currently one of the highest paid centres in the competition. That means its no shock that, with him not being selected, the Panthers are eager to move him on.
The Dragons are ready to pounce, with the rebuilding Red V eager to take on Tago’s last two seasons should Penrith pay freight on his $750,000-a-year pay packet. That would help both clubs, they argue.
The joint venture may also look to add some fully-paid seasons beyond 2028, using cash being freed up by Val Holmes and Clint Gutherson leaving.
It also serves Tago well: He’s champing at the bit to get NRL playing time again.
Should the reported deal go through — and the Sporting Base would note its very early days — it would be another stunning signing for Dean Young and recruitment chief Daniel Anderson, who have already brought Keaon Koloamatangi, Scott Drinkwater, Luke Metcalf, and more to the club.
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More recently, the coaching-recruitment duo have also lured Phil Sami and Kodi Nikorima into the fold, while re-signing Toby and Ryan Couchman, Loko Pasifiki-Tonga, and Jacob Halangahu.
Other young guns like Dylan “Eagle” Egan and Hamish Stewart are also already signed up to 2029 and beyond for St George Illawarra.
The Dragons will, of course, end with the joint venture’s first spoon this year.
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