Brisbane release Joe Ofahengaue, likely to join Wests Tigers as cover for departing Josh Aloiai
Brisbane prop Joe Ofahengaue is on the move and the Broncos are already eyeing his replacement as the Tigers circle.
NRL
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Brisbane’s roster clean out is in full swing following the departure of prop Joe Ofahengaue on Sunday.
The former Maroons forward was released from the final two years of his Broncos contract as he eyes a move to the Tigers.
It comes amid a transfer merry-go-round with former Tiger Josh Aloiai to join Manly on a three-year deal.
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A decision is expected to be made as early as Monday on the Aloiai deal.
Ofahengaue’s departure is also set to allow premiership-winning forward John Asiata to join the Broncos next year.
The 25-year-old Ofahengaue played 105 games across six seasons with the Broncos and finished his career with the Broncos with a wooden spoon finish.
Broncos boss Paul White farewelled Ofahengaue on Sunday.
“Joe has been a big part of the Broncos for close to a decade after starting in the NYC team in 2013 and working his way into first grade at the start of 2015,” White said.
“He played in a Grand Final in his first year of NRL, something not many players have achieved, and has gone on to play for Queensland in two Origin games, as well as Tonga at international level.
“Joe has made a lot of friends during his time at the Club and he will be missed by all of us at the Broncos.
“Everyone at the Club wishes Joe, Sofi and little Mila all the best in the future.”
In the absence of Ofahengaue and David Fifita, the Broncos are eyeing off Asiata, who would challenge incumbent lock Pat Carrigan for the No. 13 jumper next season.
The clever Asiata tallied 128 first-grade games for the Cowboys and he played a handy interchange role in the club’s maiden premiership win in 2015, ironically beating the Broncos in the all-Queensland grand final.
Asiata is one of the code’s most versatile players, having played prop, second row, lock, five-eighth and halfback for the Cowboys since his NRL debut in 2014.
Originally published as Brisbane release Joe Ofahengaue, likely to join Wests Tigers as cover for departing Josh Aloiai
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