I have absolutely zero inside knowledge on this...
But, there is a certain degree of logic at play here. Cows just got six blokes in the Origin squad and that will mean significant upgrades for most of them (many players have direct clauses for upgrades if they make rep teams / even if they don't, their price will go up).
Cows also made a strong play for Hopgood from Penrith (a backrower)...which is strange given their backrow depth for 2023.
Luc on 700 does not make 'any' sense for them and will likely cost them a couple of their origin players at some point. Factor in JT's huge salary and you have almost 1.7 mill in two backrowers before you even get around to all your Origin players.
Logically, you would think they might be looking to get out from that contract if they can.