South Sydney have rejected a player swap proposal from Manly that would have seen forward Nathan Brown return to Redfern in exchange for prop Davvy Moale’s early release.
Manly reportadly floated the idea of sending Brown to the Rabbitohs while securing Moale, but Souths knocked the approach back as they would prefer to free up cap space altogether.
The Rabbitohs are believed to be open to releasing Moale a year early, but only if it allows them to create room for another signing, such as David Fifita, who they’ve publicly declared interest in should the Titans release the star backrower.
Both Brown and Moale are contracted until the end of 2026, meaning a straight swap would not have given Souths any real salary cap relief.
MORE: Dane Laurie set to depart Panthers
Moale has emerged as a key target for the Sea Eagles as they look to strengthen their middle rotation following the departure of several forwards.
Whilst the signing is an important one with Moale's deal with Manly starting from 2027, the Sea Eagles do have an immediate need for his services.
Brown, meanwhile, has revived his NRL career since moving to the Northern Beaches, but at 32 years of age, this could well be his final NRL contract after a lengthy career.
Despite his solid form, it appears the Rabbitohs have no desire to bring him back to the club he once represented earlier in his career.
Souths are expected to continue making roster moves in the coming months as they shape their squad for 2026 and keep flexibility for a potential play at Fifita if he becomes available.
If the Sea Eagles are serious about landing Moale for 2026, they may need to get creative with their own salary cap management.