NZ Warriors' star fullback Reece Walsh reportedly has his sights set on a move back to a Queensland-based NRL club.
According to Australia's Daily Telegraph, Walsh has been feeling "uneasy" with the Warriors and may end up back with Brisbane Broncos or newcomers Redcliffe Dolphins "sooner rather than later".
The 19-year-old has two years remaining on his three-year contract with the Warriors, who would block any move to a rival club prior to its expiration.
Walsh's deal has a player option for 2024, meaning he would be forced to play 2023 for the Warriors unless he was granted a release.
A permanent return to Queensland - where Walsh's family resides - seems the most likely scenario, with Redcliffe Dolphins reportedly the current frontrunners to secure his services.
Walsh and his partner have a one-year old daughter.
Since being confirmed as an NRL expansion side for the 2023 season and beyond, the Dolphins have made an immediate splash in the player market.
The club has signed Wayne Bennett as coach and quickly picked up State of Origin star Felise Kaufusi, as well as Kiwis Jesse Bromwich and Jamayne Isaako.
Walsh began his career with Brisbane Broncos, before deciding to sign with the Warriors in 2021 to open a path to more consistent playing time.
He made an instant impact with the NZ side, being selected to the Queensland State of Origin side for game two of the series, before injury ruled him out.
The Warriors are currently based at Terrigal in New South Wales, where they'll likely remain for the 2022 NRL season. They hope to play some games in Auckland later in the season, before returning permamnetly in 2023.
Walsh's time with the Warriors hasn't been without controversy. He was fined and placed on a nine-month 'good behaviour' bond after admitting to cocaine possession during an off-season night out on the Gold Coast.
