Not mad at this one bit:
South Sydney are circling their first signing since a dramatic late-season collapse, which cost them a finals berth, after registering interest in Manly enforcer Sean Keppie.
2026, but has been given permission to negotiate with other clubs as the Sea Eagles overhaul their roster.
Manly have freed up roster spots by releasing Kelma Tuilagi (Eels) and Kaeo Weekes (Raiders) to accommodate the signings of Luke Brooks, Jaxson Paulo, Tommy Talau and Aitasi James – and won’t stand in Keppie’s way.
Keppie’s management has started talks with the Rabbitohs, who are trying to sneak under the guard of the Wests Tigers.
Many thought Keppie and Tigers cult hero Alex Twal would trade places, but the Rabbitohs have moved swiftly to intervene. Keppie has played 79 games for the Sea Eagles since his debut in 2019.
Whether the Sea Eagles would be willing to contribute some of his salary at the Rabbitohs is a sticking point in negotiations.
The Tigers have been interested in Keppie since giving Twal the green light to negotiate with rivals clubs despite having a year left on his deal, but now face serious competition from Jason Demetriou’s side.