Three players are potentially in motion in the latest NRL transfer news, with the Melbourne Storm monitoring developments surrounding Stefano Utoikamanu of the Wests Tigers. Utoikamanu’s contract includes a clause allowing him to leave the Tigers if they fail to reach the finals this year. Despite his previous denials, speculation is likely to increase if the Tigers don’t start the season well, particularly with a challenging Round 1 match against the Canberra Raiders.
While the Tigers hope to retain Utoikamanu, external factors suggest the Melbourne Storm may enter the fray for his signature. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki’s potential move to the Dolphins in Townsville could trigger a domino effect, with the Cowboys eyeing Melbourne Storm’s Jack Howarth as a replacement.
Howarth, despite having limited first-grade experience, may consider leaving his lucrative deal with the Storm to join the Cowboys. This move could free up funds for the Storm to pursue a middle forward, addressing a weakness exposed in their 2023 campaign.
Utoikamanu’s potential departure from the Tigers could address a significant need for the Storm, but uncertainties remain about how events will unfold in 2024, especially considering the impact of the Tigers’ new coach, Benji Marshall. If Utoikamanu stays with the Tigers, he remains off-contract with the club until the end of 2025.
