NZ Warriors have reportedly entered the race to snare the services of Cronulla Sharks prop Braden Hamlin-Uele.
According to Sydney Morning Herald, the club has offered the Aucklander a three-year deal worth almost AU$2.2 million (NZ$2.38m) from 2025.
At NZ$790,00 a year, the bid is understood to be higher than the deal offered by the Sharks to keep Hamlin-Uele, 29, whose contract expires at the end of the upcoming season.
Hamlin-Uele could be the new prop to lead the Warriors pack, after the imminent departure of Addin Fonua-Blake, who was granted an early release from his contract on compassionate grounds to sign on with the Sharks from 2025.
Hamlin-Uele played one test for NZ Kiwis in 2019, before switching allegiance to Toa Samoa, whom he represented at the 2022 World Cup.
He made 19 appearances for the Sharks last season, before missing the elimination final loss against Sydney Roosters, due to injury.
Hamlin-Uele posted per game averages of 94.2 running metres, 18.8 tackles made and 2.3 tackle busts.
