Broncos sign Maroons series winner to replace Storm-bound Xavier Coates

Brisbane has continued its recruitment drive by securing Xavier Coates’ Maroons teammate as cover for the Melbourne Storm-bound star.

Brenko Lee (second from left) will replace Xavier Coates (right) next year. Picture: Nigel Hallett

The Broncos have continued their recruitment drive by securing Queensland Origin utility back Brenko Lee from the Storm.

News Corp can reveal Lee has agreed to terms on a two-year deal as the Broncos ramp up their roster rebuild after snaring marquee Souths halfback Adam Reynolds on a $2.5 million contract.

The Broncos were rocked by Xavier Coates’ decision to defect to the Storm next season but his impending departure has freed-up funds for Maroons teammate Lee to move to Brisbane in 2022.

Lee had a dream 2020 campaign, winning a premiership ring with the Storm before celebrating a dream Origin debut – just 12 months after he almost quit rugby league following a turbulent stint at the Titans.

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Brenko Lee (second from left) will replace Xavier Coates (right) next year. Picture: Nigel Hallett

But Lee has endured a frustrating start to the 2021 season, having yet to register an NRL game due to injury.

The hulking 104kg Lee is capable of playing centre or wing and will be a handy addition to the Broncos backline stocks with his size and premiership experience.

It is understood the 25-year-old is viewed primarily as a right centre to fill the void for Kotoni Staggs, who is set to move to five-eighth next season to partner Reynolds in the halves.

That means the Broncos are still on the lookout for a winger to replace Coates, although Lee may yet be an option for the right flank.

Lee has advised Storm teammates of his decision to join the Broncos.

Brenko Lee in action for the Burleigh Bears in 2019. Picture: Supplied.

“After talking to Kevvie (Broncos coach Kevin Walters) I felt they are building something special up there at the Broncos and I wanted to be part of it,” he said.

“My wife and I are proud Queenslanders and returning home was important to us both.”

Lee told News Corp last year of his incredible fightback to play in the grand final against Penrith after briefly leaving the NRL to try his hand at rugby union with the Melbourne Rebels.

Originally published as Broncos sign Maroons series winner to replace Storm-bound Xavier Coates