Phil Gould rules out signing rival prop Luron Patea for Bulldogs

Phil Gould, the Canterbury Bulldogs' director of football, confirmed that the club will not pursue Luron Patea of the Penrith Panthers. Despite reports indicating a possible departure, Patea has one year left on his contract and is expected to fulfill it. Canterbury has recently signed several players, including Connor Votano, Freddy Lussick, and Jaxson Allen, and Gould mentioned they are close to finalizing another signing for the 2027 season. With a focus on roster depth, Gould expressed confidence in promoting a player from their pathways program to fill one of two available spots.

• 5:00 AMZero Tackle NRL — Phil Gould denies chase of rival prop as Panthers exit looms