The Raiders appear to have won the race to sign rugby league's most wanted man – ex-Knights prop Leo Thompson.
Half a dozen clubs have been chasing Thompson since he announced he was quitting the Knights in 2026 earlier this week.
But Wide World of Sports has learned that Thompson has told teammates that he is set to sign a long-term deal with the Raiders in coming days.
Leo Thompson is set to sign with a new club. Getty
A major factor in his decision is that his partner hails from Canberra and is keen to return to her home town.
Thompson's signing will be a major coup for the Raiders given the impact the 24-year-old had at the Knights in 2024.
He developed into a dynamic force up front for the club, starting in 23 games as Newcastle made a late run into the finals.
The big Kiwi averaged 104 run metres and 31 tackles per game this year, laying the foundation for the likes of Kalyn Ponga and Bradman Best to work their magic out wide.
The Bulldogs met with Thompson and his manager last week but made no formal offer for the powerhouse prop.
The Dolphins, Parramatta and possibly the Roosters were also in contention for his services.
His departure is a blow for the Knights, who have also lost fellow front-rower Daniel Saifiti, who has signed with the Dolphins for 2025.