@Everything-WT said in [Signing Suggestions & Rumours](/post/1251942) said:
https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/subscribe/news/1/?sourceCode=DTWEB_WRE170_a_GGL&dest=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.dailytelegraph.com.au%2Fsport%2Fnrl%2Fteams%2Fdragons%2Fnewcastle-brisbane-wests-tigers-among-clubs-who-could-show-interest-if-gareth-widdop-returns-to-nrl%2Fnews-story%2F05b1548d9478ab19f5dd2de1261143f8&memtype=anonymous&mode=premium
Up to five NRL clubs could soon start formulating big money offers after the shock revelation that former St George Illawarra star Gareth Widdop may be granted approval to quit Super League club Warrington and return to play in Australia on compassionate grounds.
News Corp understands the Newcastle Knights, Brisbane, North Queensland, Wests Tigers and Canterbury may show interest in negotiating with the English-born Widdop.
Wealthy Warrington Wolves owner Simon Moran – worth nearly $300m - is aware of Widdop’s personal desire to live back in Australia. Moran has been privately contacting influential NRL figures to determine whether Widdop could find an NRL club.
Widdop’s wife, Carley, and three children left England about six months ago to return to Australia. The star player is struggling and frustrated at being forced to speak with his kids over the phone or Skype.
He has not sought a release from Warrington and does want to honour the final two years of his Wolves deal yet close friends in England say the situation with his family is impacting Widdop’s well-being.
If an NRL club wanted Widdop and an offer was lodged, it is anticipated Warrington would allow an early release so he could enjoy more personal contact with his children again.
“Gareth is aiming to see out his contract at Warrington but his personal circumstances could change if he feels the need to contact clubs in Australia,” said Widdop’s manager Paul Sutton, from SFX.
Warrington had read about the Roosters decision to offload Kyle Flanagan, probably to the Bulldogs, and wondered if Trent Robinson’s side could be an option for Widdop.
But News Corp understands there is no interest from the Sydney Roosters despite the fact Flanagan is leaving.
Knights coach Adam O’Brien helped Widdop’s career while the pair were at Melbourne while Widdop’s dad, Gary, is a mad Broncos fan.
It is simply too early though for any clubs to start showing official interest in Widdop. Some clubs will only know Widdop could be available after reading this story.
The greatest hurdle in Widdop returning to Australia would be money. He is on a massive contract at Warrington worth around $900,000 a season.
Club list managers privately agree Widdop, 31, could earn around $550,000 to $600,000 a season in the NRL. He would need to accept a hefty pay cut.
Widdop is in the first of a three-season contract in England. He has had mixed success at Warrington with injuries and personal issues disrupting his much-hyped tenure back home.
He played 125 NRL games for the Dragons and 71 previously with Melbourne Storm. Earlier this year reports emerged of a possible swap at St George Illawarra between Widdop and Dragons star Corey Norman.
Norman did not harbour any ambition to play in England, the possible move then abandoned.
Widdop was part of the Melbourne side which won the 2012 grand final.
