During his two stays with Newcastle, Gagai, 33, had a spectacular career and frequently represented Australia and Queensland. It’s known that Gagai is eager to continue playing, possibly for a few more seasons, and that he would review offers from other teams.

The Roosters are now only talking about Gagai among themselves as a potential replacement for Josh Suaalii and Joey Manu, who will both be playing rugby union next season.

If the Roosters do decide to make a play for Gagai, they’ll have a battle on their hands to get him, with Newcastle understood to be keen to re-sign him.

Gagai is currently on good money at the Knights and will likely be asked to take a pay cut regardless of where he lands in 2025 and beyond.

However, he may be swayed by the number of years offered, with Gagai keen to have the security of a multi-year deal.

Manu confirmed earlier this week that he had struck a deal with Japanese rugby union club Toyata Verblitz after finishing up with the Roosters this season, ending any chance of Trent Robinson or Nick Politis talking him into a change of heart.

This week, Phil Gould expressed his “devastation” over the “tragic” loss of Manou on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles with Gus podcast. If he had been coaching the Roosters, he would have made a greater effort to get the superstar on the ball more frequently.

Despite some nervous moments over the past 12 months, Suaalii’s big deal with Super Rugby, which he signed last year, is certain to go ahead.

Although Gagai seems like a good addition for the upcoming season, the Roosters will also have Wallabies star Mark Nawaqanitawase, an explosive outside back who can play in the centers if necessary.