Dane Gagai is set to return to Newcastle

Dane Gagai is set to return to Newcastle as the Knights close in on a deal for the Queensland State of Origin star

Dane Gagai is on his way to Newcastle Picture: Getty Images

Dane Gagai is set to return to Newcastle. The South Sydney and Queensland State of Origin star is on the verge of signing a deal with the Knights for the next three seasons in a major show of faith in coach Adam O’Brien.

Gagai spent six years at the Knights before joining South Sydney. The Rabbitohs were keen to keep him but it is understood he has made the decision to join Newcastle in a major blow to not only Souths, but also another of his former clubs, the Brisbane Broncos.

His decision paves the way for Souths to make a play for Broncos half Anthony Milford. The Rabbitohs were waiting for Gagai to make a call before moving for Milford.

It also ends Newcastle’s plans to sign Dale Finucane, who is expected to make a call on his future later on Friday. The Knights were among six clubs chasing Finucane but were considered outsiders anyway because they had only offered him a two-year deal

More to come