Richardson flew to the United Kingdom to discuss the situation with Bennett in the hope a deal can be done before the players are due to begin their pre-seasons.

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The other hot topic of conversation will revolve around South Sydney’s roster. The Rabbitohs need to offload several players and Richardson will investigate whether there is any Super League interest in them while he is abroad. Fairfax Media can reveal the Rabbitohs are prepared to release Alex Johnston should another club be prepared to pay the "fullback money" he is seeking. The club already has custodian options Greg Inglis and Broncos recruit Corey Allan on their books, the latter signing on for the next three seasons. It means Johnston is likely to revert to the wing, a position that normally comes with a lower price tag. It’s understood several clubs are interested in Johnston, but can’t afford his asking price, which could result in him staying put.

Johnston isn’t the only player the club is prepared to release. The Rabbitohs won’t stand in the way of Zane Musgrove if he can secure a contract elsewhere, freeing up funds required to re-sign Robert Jennings and John Sutton. Another priority is NSW and Australian hooker Damien Cook, who can field offers from rivals for 2020 after the November 1 free-agency deadline ticked over.

The Broncos are also keen to get Seibold on board as quickly as possible to shape his squad. The Gold Coast is keen on Kiwis Alex Glenn and Jordan Kahu and the Broncos are amenable to them leaving straight away if the terms are agreeable. That would free up money to secure outstanding off-contract youngster Tevita Pangai Junior, who has made no secret of his close relationship with Bennett. If he doesn’t switch to the Rabbitohs now, Pangai Junior may opt to do a short-term deal with Brisbane and then reassess whether he wants to follow Bennett to Redfern.