Roosters star Connor Watson arrives in Port Moresby to tour Chiefs facilities

Sydney Roosters utility and NSW Origin representative Connor Watson arrived in Port Moresby today [Sunday] as the PNG Chiefs looks set to potentially secure his signature.

Following the Magic Round loss to North Queensland Cowboys last night in Brisbane, Watson was granted permission by the Roosters to fly up with his partner, Kiara, to meet directly with Chiefs officials.

The Blues star is understood to be touring the Chiefs facilities and hold talks with general manager Michael Chammas.

While he is still under contract with the Roosters until the end of the 2027 season, this quick turnaround visit, ahead of his return to Sydney tomorrow for the Blues' State of Origin camp, shows just how seriously these roster-building conversations are being taken by the NRL expansion side.

The PNG Chiefs, entering the NRL competition as the 19th franchise, are heavily pursuing Watson to bolster their foundational roster. They have already locked in major star power by signing Wests Tigers superstar Jarome Luai and prolific try-scorer Alex Johnston. Landing Watson would mark a massive three from three recruiting strike.

Watson is under contract with the Sydney Roosters, but the club has granted him permission to travel to PNG to explore his long-term options. The Roosters have indicated they are willing to grant him an early release if he secures a lucrative, long-term deal elsewhere.

While other NRL clubs like the St George Illawarra Dragons, Manly Sea Eagles, and the Perth Bears have thrown their hats into the ring to sign the versatile utility, this direct trip to Port Moresby firmly establishes the PNG Chiefs as the frontrunners to secure his signature.