Western Bears are set to be officially confirmed as the 18th NRL franchise in the coming weeks after an in-principle agreement was reportedly struck with the Western Australian Government.
Following the news of the revival of the North Sydney Bears as part of the expansion plan, attention has immediately turned to potential recruits.
A host of big-name stars are due to come off-contract at the end of 2026 making them prime targets for the franchise.
Jahrome Hughes has featured near the top of almost every hypothetical wishlist. And now the Melbourne halfback has responded to the links.
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Jahrome Hughes comments on potential Western Bears move
Hughes made his NRL debut for Gold Coast in 2013 but this proved to be his sole appearance for the club.
The New Zealander then spent three years in the wilderness before getting an opportunity in first grade once again with North Queensland.
However, he once again only managed to play one game before leaving the NRL outfit.
In 2017, Hughes made the move down to Melbourne and gradually progressed under Craig Bellamy’s watch before becoming a regular for the Storm two years into his time in Victoria.
Since then he has established himself as one of the best halfbacks in the league, notching over 150 matches and recording over 100 try assists on the way to premiership success.
The Kiwi star saw his ascension to the top of the game completed last year when he was awarded the Dally M Medal.
Unsurprisingly, he has been drawn into the transfer speculation with the Bears in need of a premier playmaker.
He will be 33 years old by the time the WA team enters the NRL in 2027 and is viewed by many as an ideal veteran to build the club around.
However, Hughes has all but dismissed the prospect of venturing west upon the conclusion of his deal in Melbourne.
"I think my name’s probably only up there because I’m off contract around that same time," Hughes said ahead of Magic Round.
"I haven’t really thought about it, and if I have it my way, then I’ll be here [in Melbourne] forever.
"I don’t really know what Perth’s like. I've heard it’s a nice place, but I haven’t thought about it at all."