New club set to make play for Shaun Johnson

The Canberra Raiders are set to make a big for Warriors half Shaun Johnson, according to a report by The Daily Teleragph.

Raiders officials have reportedly decided Johnson would be worthwhile addition to their spine and are looking to bring him on board next season.

No official offer has been tabled yet, but new Raiders assistant coach Andrew McFadden is pushing hard to acquire Johnson, having coached the 28-year old at the Warriors.

Johnson does not come out of contract until the end of the 2019 NRL season, but it is understood that the Warriors have encouraged him to explore his options.

Canberra are the first team to express interest in Johnson, but several other clubs are expected to join the race.

It is being speculated that the Sydney Roosters will also pursue Johnson, who is currently on a $1 million contract with the Warriors, but could yet re-sign on a reduced deal.

Johnson will return from New Zealand's tour of England in the second half of November where he will then enjoy a mandatory eight-week break.