Rival set to pounce on unwanted Sea Eagles star

Manly has given young winger Christian Tuipulotu permission to leave immediately, according to The Sydney Morning Herald.

The 22-year-old's manager requested permission to negotiate with rival clubs and an immediate release looks likely.

According to the Herald, Tuipulotu is keen to reunite with new Dragons coach Shane Flanagan, who was previously an assistant at the Sea Eagles.

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Flanagan is thought to be keen on the young winger but St George Illawarra is baulking at the long-term deal Tuipulotu's agent is seeking.

If the deal can be made, Tuipulotu can line up on the opposite wing to Mikaela Ravalawa to start the Red V's season.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - MARCH 16:  Christian Tuipulotu of the Sea Eagles warms up before the round three NRL match between Manly Sea Eagles and Parramatta Eels at 4 Pines Park on March 16, 2023 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Manly has an abundance of talented young wingers with Jason Saab, Jaxson Paulo and Tommy Talau already fighting for spots in the team.

The Herald also says the Sea Eagles are keen to elevate veteran forward Nathan Brown into the top squad, which Tuipulotu's release would allow.

Tuipulotu made his NRL debut with the Roosters in 2020 but his breakout season was in 2022 when he scored 11 tries in 19 games for Manly.

He played only 12 games last year and is currently contracted to the Sea Eagles until the end of 2025.

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