Newcastle, Brisbane, Wests Tigers among clubs who could show interest if Gareth Widdop returns to NRL

Despite only being one year into a rich deal with Warrington Wolves, former Dragons star Gareth Widdop may be released to play in the NRL so he can be closer to his children.

LEEDS, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 09: Gareth Widdop of Warrington is tackled by Sam Powell and Morgan Smithies of Wigan during the Betfred Super League match between Warrington Wolves and Wigan Warriors at Emerald Headingley Stadium on October 09, 2020 in Leeds, England.Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images)

Up to five NRL clubs could soon start formulating big money offers after the shock revelation that former St George Illawarra star Gareth Widdop may be granted approval to quit Super League club Warrington and return to play in Australia on compassionate grounds.

News Corp understands the Newcastle Knights, Brisbane, North Queensland, Wests Tigers and Canterbury may show interest in negotiating with the English-born Widdop.

Wealthy Warrington Wolves owner Simon Moran – worth nearly $300m - is aware of Widdop’s personal desire to live back in Australia. Moran has been privately contacting influential NRL figures to determine whether Widdop could find an NRL club.

Catch Fox League’s Grand Final Week coverage on Kayo. Stream all the latest news and insight right up until kick off plus half-time and full-time analysis from the Fox League commentary team. New to Kayo? Get your 14-day free trial & start streaming instantly >

Gareth Widdop is sure to draw plenty of interest if he came back to the NRL.

NRL LATEST

Origin blow: Bennett bans Stefanovic doco

How a Wallabies legend saved the ‘89 grand final

The day it rained cash in Penrith

Widdop’s wife, Carley, and three children left England about six months ago to return to Australia. The star player is struggling and frustrated at being forced to speak with his kids over the phone or Skype.

He has not sought a release from Warrington and does want to honour the final two years of his Wolves deal yet close friends in England say the situation with his family is impacting Widdop’s well-being.

If an NRL club wanted Widdop and an offer was lodged, it is anticipated Warrington would allow an early release so he could enjoy more personal contact with his children again.

“Gareth is aiming to see out his contract at Warrington but his personal circumstances could change if he feels the need to contact clubs in Australia,” said Widdop’s manager Paul Sutton, from SFX.

Warrington had read about the Roosters decision to offload Kyle Flanagan, probably to the Bulldogs, and wondered if Trent Robinson’s side could be an option for Widdop.

Gareth Widdop with his kids after his final game with the Dragons last year.

But News Corp understands there is no interest from the Sydney Roosters despite the fact Flanagan is leaving.

Knights coach Adam O’Brien helped Widdop’s career while the pair were at Melbourne while Widdop’s dad, Gary, is a mad Broncos fan.

It is simply too early though for any clubs to start showing official interest in Widdop. Some clubs will only know Widdop could be available after reading this story.

The greatest hurdle in Widdop returning to Australia would be money. He is on a massive contract at Warrington worth around $900,000 a season.

Club list managers privately agree Widdop, 31, could earn around $550,000 to $600,000 a season in the NRL. He would need to accept a hefty pay cut.

Widdop was part of Melbourne Storm’s 2012 premiership-winning team.

Widdop is in the first of a three-season contract in England. He has had mixed success at Warrington with injuries and personal issues disrupting his much-hyped tenure back home.

He played 125 NRL games for the Dragons and 71 previously with Melbourne Storm. Earlier this year reports emerged of a possible swap at St George Illawarra between Widdop and Dragons star Corey Norman.

Norman did not harbour any ambition to play in England, the possible move then abandoned.

Widdop was part of the Melbourne side which won the 2012 grand final.

Originally published as Newcastle, Brisbane, Wests Tigers among clubs who could show interest if Gareth Widdop returns to NRL