NEWCASTLE coach Nathan Brown has opened the door for Aaron Woods to join the Knights.

The former NSW forward has been speculated as potentially moving on from Canterbury as the Bulldogs deal with NRL salary cap issues.

Brown says Newcastle haven’t spoken to Woods or his manager but believes the 27-year-old is a “player who’d certainly improve our squad”.

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“Any time there’s front-rowers on the market we’re always discussing that,” Brown said on Wednesday.

“I’m not sure what the story is with Canterbury, whether he is a movable piece.

“We certainly came into this year two or three middles short, so we’re in a strong position if someone like Woodsy became available and we thought it was part of the plan and he wanted to come.

“I’m not sure how much truth’s in any of it.”

The Dogs have already been forced to let go star fullback Moses Mbye, who will join West Tigers on a four-year deal from next season.

Woods has reportedly been shopped around despite only starting at the Belmore-based club this season on a lucrative four-year deal.

Canberra have already declared Woods to be off-limits even with front-rowers Shannon Boyd and Junior Paulo leaving the Raiders at the end of the season.