Bulldogs close to a deal with England powerhouse Luke Thompson
Canterbury’s quest to strengthen their ranks with England powerhouse Luke Thompson is almost complete, with the St Helens prop possibly just days away from joining the club.
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Canterbury’s quest to strengthen their ranks with England powerhouse Luke Thompson could be only days away from coming to fruition as the club edges towards a deal with Super League side St Helens.
The Australian understands the Bulldogs remain in talks with the Saints over the 25-year-old, who has already agreed to join Canterbury next season.
However, it is understood he could fly to Australia as early as next week, where he would be forced to enter quarantine for a fortnight.
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Thompson would then spend a week preparing for his NRL debut and could be available for the Bulldogs within a month.
It is believed Canterbury would be forced to pay a transfer fee for the England international, but they have enough room in their salary cap to accommodate his arrival.
Thompson’s early move would be a massive boost for coach Dean Pay, who eased some of the pressure over his future when the club secured their opening win of the season against St George Illawarra last weekend.
He is regarded as the best front-rower in Super League and good judges rank Thompson as one of the best forwards in the world.
He was coveted by a host of clubs, but the Bulldogs secured his signature after chief executive Andrew Hill flew to England to meet Thompson in person.
Originally published as Bulldogs close to a deal with England powerhouse Luke Thompson