Daniel Saifiti is set to join Stefano Utoikamanu as a big-name prop on the NRL's open market after being told by Newcastle he can look elsewhere.
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Currently signed with the Knights until the end of 2026, Saifiti has confirmed he is set to become a victim of the club's salary cap position.
His potential release is likely to trigger significant interest from elsewhere, given the dearth of quality front-rowers currently available.
Saifiti is currently earning close to $750,000 a season as part of a deal signed while he was a NSW State of Origin prop in 2021.
If no clubs are willing to pay that much for his services, Newcastle could be willing to contribute to his wages if he is to be granted a release.
Under NRL rules, Saifiti would be within his rights to remain at the Knights next year, and not pursue other options.
But in an interview with the Newcastle Herald, the 28-year-old confirmed he had been tapped on the shoulder by the Knights and was preparing to leave.
"I think Stevie Wonder could see that our salary cap is not in the best position," Saifiti said.
"But they've been up front and honest, and I have to respect that.
"If I wanted to dig my heels in and stay, I could stay.
"But I love this club too much, if that's the way they want to go ... I'll do what's best for myself and my family, but I also have this club's interests at heart as well."
Utoikamanu is currently the highest-profile front-rower on the market, with the Wests Tigers prop fielding offers of around $900,000 a season from rivals.
Beyond them, Matt Lodge, Jordan McLean and Jack de Belin represent the most accomplished middles on the market.
Saifiti has played all 173 of his NRL games for the Knights, debuting at the start of 2016 and on the same day as his twin brother Jacob.
He endured a rough run of form to start this season, but has shown signs of improvement over the past two months.
Australian Associated Press
