The Parramatta Eels are looking to bolster their outside back options and are set to make a play for Newcastle star Bradman Best following November 1, if he doesn't strike a deal in the Hunter beforehand.
Best's Knights contract expires at the end of 2027, meaning he is free to negotiate with rival clubs for a 2028 contract in just over two months' time.
With negotiations still ongoing between Best and Newcastle, the Daily Telegraph is reporting the Eels will consider making a splash on the representative star if he becomes available.
Best has become an Origin specialist in recent years, starting at centre in three crucial Game 3 fixtures and winning all three.
Most recently, Best returned to the NSW Blues side for the 2026 Suncorp decider, scoring an instrumental long-range try and keeping his undefeated streak in sky blue alive.
At only 25 years of age, Best is entering his prime years in the NRL and boasts over 100 NRL games of experience.
In 13 appearances this year, Best has already notched up 14 try assists, 35 tackle breaks and four tries during an injury-disrupted campaign.
There are plenty of elite outside backs who are yet to put pen to paper with their respective clubs for 2028, including Dolphins trio Jack Bostock, Herbie Farnworth and Herbie Farnworth.
The Eels have made solid recruitment plays for next season, picking up Jaydn Su'A on a long-term deal while Jarome Luai will join the club on a one-year deal before he makes the switch to Papua New Guinea.
Best got his first taste of Test football at the end of last year, taking part in the Australia Kangaroos squad in the Ashes tournament, but didn't get game time during the three-game series.
He has been named at centre for the Knights' formidable trip to Auckland on Sunday, facing the high-flying New Zealand Warriors in a blockbuster clash.
Following the trip across the Tasman, they will return to the Hunter and have a well-earned bye in Round 27 before they enter their first finals series since 2024.
