Rabbitohs powerbrokers have reportedly sprung into action, stirred by the advancing footsteps of the PNG Chiefs' bid to lure their legendary head coach, Wayne Bennett.
The Daily Telegraph is reporting that the club is preparing to table an offer that would keep Bennett in Redfern through at least 2028 - and possibly into 2029.
Already contracted with South Sydney until the end of 2027, the 75-year-old coach has become a hot commodity as the Chiefs prepare to enter the competition in 2028 - accelerating the pace for his signature.
Rabbitohs' CEO Blake Solly confirmed the club's plans and outlined a preferred timeline to wrap up negotiations.
"We understand the ARLC will be interested in Wayne taking a role with the PNG team but we are very keen for him to stay beyond his current deal," Solly told The Daily Telegraph.
"Hopefully we’ll have those discussions over this off-season."
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The Rabbitohs are looking to bounce back after an injury-ravaged season which saw them drop to 14th on the premiership ladder despite their optimistic preseason expectations.
If the club strikes a long-term deal with Bennett, he would have the opportunity to move past the historic 1000-game mark in the cardinal and myrtle.