November 1 has come and gone, and that means over 170 players are now free to negotiate with rival clubs.
While we wait for the action and cool-off periods to really heat up, Zero Tackle will spend the next couple of weeks exploring the clubs that must make plays for the biggest names on the open market.
One of the biggest who could well switch clubs is Keaon Koloamatangi.
The forward, who has become one of the best props in the game after Wayne Bennett shuffled him into the middle third during 2025 from the second row, has reportedly demanded about $900,000 for his services beyond the end of 2026.
The Rabbitohs will undoubtedly make a play for their star forward, but there is no guarantee they have the salary cap to go with rival clubs, with a large chunk of their 2027 squad already locked away, leaving little in the way of wiggle room.
Here are the clubs outside of the Maroubra-based outfit who will likely come in hot for Koloamatangi.
6. Newcastle Knights
The Knights have little in the way of wiggle room when it comes to their 2027 squad, but they do have spots left to fill, and given the nature of the players signed, they should have some money available.
They have big deals for Kalyn Ponga and Dylan Brown, of course, but beyond that, the rest of their squad aren't breaking the bank.
That could leave just enough for the club to have a go at Koloamatangi, where he would instantly become one of their most important players.
It might seem an unlikely play, but if Koloamatangi leaves South Sydney and wants to stay in range of Sydney, the Knights could become an option.
