NZ Warriors have reportedly offered a three-year extension to key forward Tohu Harris.
According to nrl.com, both sides are close to an agreement, with the former Kiwis international apparently eager to stay with the NZ club beyond the completion of his four-year deal, which ends after this season.
The 29-year-old shapes as a strong candidate to replace Roger Tuivasa-Sheck as captain, when the fullback leaves to chase his All Blacks dream next year.
Tuivasa-Sheck's early announcement that he'd forego the final year of his contract has allowed the Warriors a head start on their recruiting, as they await a decision from Melbourne Storm utility Jahrome Hughes on their offer of a lucrative three-year deal.
Since he joined the team from the Storm in 2018, 16-test international Harris has been one of the Warriors' most consistent performers and likely features heavily in new coach Nathan Brown's plans.
Brown has hinted that Harris may play a more prominent role through the middle of the park, rather than the edges this season, hoping he can use his playmaking skills to unlock defences.
Last week, the Warriors were scheduled to play Melbourne, but that game was cancelled, due to Victoria's COVID-19 lockdown.
The club is now looking to arrange trial matches against Queensland's Redcliffe Dolphins, as they build towards their NRL season-opener against Gold Coast Titans on March 13.
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