Announcement: Dragons closing in on deal to sign veteran forward as club give him permission to leave

He has been given permission to leave the Eels.

The St George Illawarra Dragons have reportedly emerged as the new favourites for the services of Reagan Campbell-Gillard, but a sticking point remains over the length of any potential contract.

The prop for the Parramatta Eels is signed for the upcoming season in Western Sydney, but it’s believed the club has given him permission to look into other options.

It follows a season in which he underachieved, with poorer stats than in any of his prior seasons at the Eels since joining from the Penrith Panthers.

Following a disastrous two years, the club has given a tap on the shoulder to a number of players, including Campbell-Gillard. New coach Jason Ryles wants to turn the team around and soon get his hands on an unmanageable pay cap.

Campbell-Gillard, a former Origin prop, would be a perfect fit for the Dragons, whose coach Shane Flanagan is keen to add a marquee middle. As is well known, the Dragons are also searching for Daniel Saifiti, whom the Knights wish to have off their books, and Corey Horsburgh, who was photographed at Belmore this week and has clearance to leave the Canberra Raiders.

However, according to journalist Michael Carayannis, Campbell-Gillard is the player they truly desire.

Carayannis stated on SEN Radio, “It’s obvious that a middle, an experienced middle, is what they are looking for.”

“It’s likely that Reagan Campbell-Gillard is at the top of their list. They’ve had conversations with Daniel Saifiti and have connections to Corey Horsburgh.

However, I believe they would prefer to sign Reagan Campbell-Gillard if everything else was equal.

However, Carayannis revealed that Campbell-Gillard is seeking a three-year contract.

The Dragons might not be willing to do that at age 31, with their form fading, if they want to keep the Parramatta prop.

“I believe Campbell-Gillard is searching for a three-year contract,” he remarked.

“But if they can manage to finish two years, then I think the Dragons would be looking at Campbell-Gillard for next season. I don’t think the Dragons will come with that.”

It is reported that the Eels will not contribute to his estimated $750,000 pay for 2025, which is expected to be another cause of contention for other teams vying for the forward.

The seasoned player made his Panthers debut in 2015 has participated in 217 NRL games.