WARNING BEFORE READING ON, some may see this as controversial (in jest)!
I don't think we are far away from having a roster capable of giving this competition a shake - maybe 2 more quality first 17 players plus 2-3 'intelligent', solid & experienced players in depth positions.
We just have to develop & manage the players we currently have to reach their best or close to their best.
... the Royce Hunt of 2024
... Taylan May realising his potential
... KPP incoming on the right edge
... Samuela injury free
... Api, Latu, Luai & Bula with plenty of reps
... a much-improved style of play & well-rehearsed structures
... a goal kicker at a consistent 80%+ whether that's Api or another
The addition of a quality lock & #14 will improve us greatly IMO.
I think our improvement comes more with coaching & player development then recruitment now.
However I would not knock back signing Joey Manu to play 5/8 with Latu moved to lock lol