Dragons look to move on Bula as Gutherson’s predecessor

The St George Illawarra Dragons are monitoring Jahream Bula's contract situation very carefully as they believe he could be the marquee signing post-Gutherson era.

The Sydney Morning Herald is reporting that the Dragons have a keen interest in the Tigers' fullback if the inner-west club is unable to agree on an extension.

There is a mutual agreement in Bula's contract for 2027 for an upgrade to $900k a season.

The Tigers will have talks with Bula's management to finalise the terms in the next month.

If they decide otherwise against the upgrade, it is on Bula's terms whether he wants to commit to the deal.

If both parties decline or can't agree on terms, he will be able to negotiate with other teams. 

The Dragons are set to be one of the sides interested in his services, with it being reported that he is seen as a long-term replacement for Clint Gutherson.

The Dragons have not contacted Bula due to anti-tampering laws; however, they sought clarification from NRL head offices to see what is allowed in this scenario.

Gutherson is signed until the end of 2027; it is unknown what his plans are after that, with reports floating around that he could be moving to a lock position for the Red V.

The Wollongong-based club will want to ensure there is a succession plan after Gutherson, with Tyrell Sloan having no certainty of locking down the long-term fullback position, leaving the door ajar for a Bula berth. 

Although Sloan has shown glimpses of attacking brilliance, the youngster is off-contract this year, indicating that the Red V may be looking elsewhere for their fullback stock moving forward.

Although the Tigers will be looking to keep Bula in orange and black, they have signed former Australian schoolboy Jack Attard, who may be a backup parachute plan if Bula and the club cannot strike a deal.