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PNG’s aggressive recruitment push is widening, with Cameron McInnes and Xavier Coates among the latest names linked to the expansion club.
Cronulla captain Cameron McInnes and Melbourne winger Xavier Coates have emerged as potential targets for the PNG Chiefs, as the NRL's incoming franchise continues to build momentum following a high-profile recruitment push.
The Chiefs confirmed on Tuesday that Wests Tigers skipper Jarome Luai will join the club from 2028, with South Sydney winger Alex Johnston also agreeing to sign.
Both deals are expected to begin after next season, with Luai reportedly securing a contract worth about $1.2 million per year in tax-free income, a figure that underlines the financial pull of the expansion side.
Attention has quickly turned to other possible recruits. McInnes, who is off contract for 2027, said the opportunity to remain in the NRL remains his priority, but acknowledged the appeal of joining a new club.
He indicated that the chance to be part of a foundation squad, combined with financial incentives, could influence his decision.
The Sharks forward only recently returned from an eight-month recovery following an ACL injury.
His long-term role at Cronulla remains uncertain, particularly with teammate Jesse Colquhoun securing a four-year extension and filling the lock position during McInnes' absence.
McInnes has also been linked with the Perth Bears, who are due to enter the competition in 2027, and his contract status places him among a group of Sharks players facing decisions in the near term.
Coates is another name drawing attention. The Storm winger has strong ties to Papua New Guinea, having been born in Port Moresby and represented the Kumuls internationally before later switching allegiance to Australia.
Reports suggest the Chiefs are also monitoring his younger brothers, Phillip and Basil, as part of a broader recruitment strategy.
Coates has previously played down links to the PNG club and is currently focused on his recovery from Achilles surgery sustained in February.
His brother Phillip is contracted at Brisbane until the end of 2027, while Basil continues to develop at junior level.
With Luai and Johnston already secured, the Chiefs' early moves appear to be shaping a roster with both financial strength and cultural ties, a combination that could influence player movement across the league in the coming seasons.