The Dragons are hopeful they will have Jack de Belin at their disposal next year, although his playing future is contingent on the outcome of his rape case, which will be heard prior to the start of the season. Merrin is only one season into a lucrative four-year deal with Leeds, but the Super League outfit is considering letting him go on compassionate grounds. The 30-year-old, who was named Rhinos skipper midway through the season, is expecting his first child with partner Jessica and hopes to be closer to their support networks in Australia. The former Panther would need to take a considerable pay cut in order to return to St George Illawarra. Loading Replay Replay video Play video Play video The Rhinos had recently given Merrin permission to explore his NRL options, but declared last month he would remain with the English outfit after those initial discussions came to nought. However, the Herald can reveal the Dragons are back in the mix, although the deal isn’t yet done and the club is still considering other players. St George Illawarra was hopeful of securing the services of Cronulla’s Kurt Capewell, but he opted to commit to the Panthers. Dragons players said they would welcome him back into the side if a homecoming could be negotiated.

"I think that'd be great for the club if there's a spot for him," said captaincy candidate Cameron McInnes when informed of the prospect. "I never got to meet him, like I played against him. But from what I hear from the boys he is a great fella, first and foremost, and he loves the club as well, he loves the Dragons. "He actually has a house down near where I live near Shellharbour so I know he's big in the area, and I'm sure you know he would want to come back and win. Trent Merrin joined the Leeds Rhinos for the 2019 Super League season. Credit:Getty "Which is great as well, so yeah, if that's the case, if there's a spot for him then it would be great having back obviously, former rep player that would be good." Recent Dragons addition Issac Luke, drafted in to bolster the club’s depth at hooker, believes Merrin could potentially play a role depending on de Belin’s future.