May 12th, 2017

Queensland winger Dane Gagai

May 12th, 2017

South Sydney are on the verge of beating arch rivals Sydney Roosters to sign star Newcastle utility back Dane Gagai.

A Queensland State of Origin representative, Gagai is one of the hottest properties on the open market and has half a dozen clubs on his tail, including premiers Cronulla.

But Souths are desperate for outside backs and word is they are winning the battle for his services.

With Greg Inglis not getting any younger, the Rabbitohs see the talented Gagai as the answer to finding a successor to the champion fullback.

Souths are also struggling for depth in the outside backs and Gagai has the ability to play centre, wing and fullback.

The speedy utility has been a shining light for the struggling Knights for the past couple of seasons and his departure will be a major blow.

The Roosters were favourites to sign Gagai and rarely miss their mark.

But Souths have more free cash under the salary cap and a greater need to sign quality outside backs.

Gagai has an option his way with the Knights for 2018 but it expires at the end of the month so a decision is expected soon.

“We haven’t got him yet - but it’s close,” my Souths source says.