PETA Hiku’s signing at Penrith has freed up Manly’s salary cap to allow them to formally sign Dylan Walker, possibly as early as Thursday.

And in-demand centre James Roberts says he wants to play under Wayne Bennett, leaving the Broncos as firm favourites to secure his signature.

It was another crazy day on the NRL player-market on Wednesday and the next piece of the jigsaw is set to be Walker joining the Sea Eagles.

The former South Sydney star has been linked to Manly for more than a month now but still the club hasn’t officially announced his recruitment.

media_camera Dylan Walker is set to join the Sea Eagles. Picture Gregg Porteous

Roberts meanwhile is torn between St George Illawarra and the Broncos - though the lure of playing under Bennett may be too much to resist.

There are also concerns Roberts - who has found off-field trouble previously - could slip back into some bad habits by returning to Sydney.

Bennett is a fan of Roberts and with Justin Hodges’ retirement leaving a spot open at right centre, there is an opportunity for “The Jet” to land at Red Hill.

Salary cap constraints could thwart any moves from the Broncos with Roberts looking for at least $350,000-a-year but the Bennett factor could sway him in Brisbane’s direction.

CONTRACT: Hiku signs with Dragons

MORE: Latest of Roberts drama

“Wayne Bennett’s obviously a great coach. He is the best,” Roberts said.

“It’d be good to play under him but there are plenty of other good coaches out there.

“I’m open to any negotiations. We’re looking at what’s best for me.

“It’s definitely not about money.

“It’s all about lifestyle and being happy. When I’m happy I play my best footy which is another reason why it’s hard to leave the Gold Coast.

“We’ll make our decision when we get all the deals on the table.”

media_camera James Roberts is set to sign with the Brisbane Broncos.

Roberts severed ties with the Titans on Monday night, bringing a premature end to his short stint at the club.

“It wasn’t so much I owed the Titans. I thanked them for giving me the opportunity,” he said.

“It was hard for me because of the fans. They’re very supportive and show up every week.

“I didn’t want to let the fans down but I had to do what’s in the best interests of my family.

“We tried to renegotiate and they didn’t really come to the table.

“I felt like I was a bit devalued. I put my heart and soul into every game for the Titans.

“I love it on the Gold Coast. I planned on playing the rest of my career for them.”