PNG Chiefs close to next NRL signing and new rumour emerges

The Papua New Guinea Chiefs are taking the NRL by storm, and they are still just under two years away from actually taking the field, with the franchise’s next recruit close to putting pen to paper.

PNG Chiefs already creating big NRL headlines

PNG Chiefs made some initial steps in their recruitment earlier this season when they announced the signing of head coach Willie Peters from Hull KR. The former Souths halfback has won the Super League title, the Challenge Cup, and the World Club Challenge with the Robins, transforming a club that finished bottom in 2020.

But Jarome Luai’s decision to travel to PNG and meet club brass and Prime Minister James Marape is what really catapulted the Chiefs into becoming one of the most talked-about franchises in the NRL.

In fact, you can trace the criticism of the Perth Bears back to when PNG started to make waves, with it becoming more and more evident that the Bears are going to be pretty poor in the NRL next season.

Meanwhile, the Chiefs’ recruitment continued, with Alex Johnston secured, and Luai confirmed to his teammates that he’ll be making the switch in 2028 as well. But PNG are far from done and have made another move.

PNG Chiefs’ next signing close

Connor Watson is on the verge of joining Johnston and Luai at the Chiefs for 2028.

It’s another major coup for Papua New Guinea rugby league, with the 29-year-old taking the trip to Port Moresby over the weekend with his partner.

The utility player has made five appearances for New South Wales in the last two seasons, showing his pedigree at the highest level, though he has been snubbed for this year’s Game One.

Watson spoke to local media about his decision to travel to PNG ahead of completing the deal and explained the reasons behind his interest.

“I’m fortunate enough to come over here and show Kiana around to make sure it’s the right fit for both of us,” Watson said. “Obviously, the money helps start the conversations, but to come over here and see the impact you can have on a country, I think that goes a long way as well.

“You can’t just come here for money; you’re not going to enjoy the experience. It’s got to be a holistic thing. We want to come to a place where we can make a change.”

PNG rumour labelled ‘rubbish’

PNG Chiefs have also been linked with a move for Joseph Suaalii, with the former Roosters star having switched codes to rugby union ahead of 2025.

But those rumours have been dismissed by Sydney Morning Herald journalist Danny Weidler.

“Report that Joseph Suaalii is in talks with PNG Chiefs is false. Have talked to Chiefs and management of Suaalii, and they both said it’s complete rubbish,” Weidler’s post read.

Suaalii’s deal with NSW Waratahs and Rugby Australia runs until the end of 2027, with PNG Chiefs entering the NRL in 2028.

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