Gold Coast Titans utility back AJ Brimson is understood to be in talks with the PNG Chiefs over potentially becoming a foundation player.
The Titans surprised the NRL world this week by handing Brimson permission to explore his options away from the Robina-based club.
Brimson is contracted on the Gold Coast through to the end of 2030, but is currently playing in the centres, and wants to move back to his preferred fullback position.
While his preference has always been to remain on the Gold Coast, the latest discussion mean he is now eyeing off a spot at another club to claim the number one jumper.
Titans coach Josh Hannay confirmed to News Corp earlier this week that he has permission to explore the open market.
“As a club we have the utmost respect for AJ and we know he loves this club and always will,” Hannay said.
“The discussions have been incredibly respectful and will remain so. There is no animosity either way. This is simply a decision that both parties see as being in their own best interests.”
It has now emerged that Brimson is in talks with the PNG Chiefs, and could become their seventh player.
The Willie Peters-coached side have already locked up the services of Jarome Luai, Zac Lomax, Brian To'o, Alex Johnston, Matty Lees and Connor Watson for their inaugural season.
If Brimson does go to PNG, he would walk into the fullback role, ensuring Lomax remains in the centres, and the same for Joseph Manu if he joins, with the code-hopping representative New Zealander also understood to be in talks with the expansion outfit.
Brimson would also likely need a stop gap home in 2027 if he does sign with the Chiefs, although the appetite of rival club in the NRL to faciliate him on short notice remains to be seen.
