Four-time premiership winner and Wests Tigers playmaker Jerome Luai is in Papua New Guinea touring facilities linked to the proposed PNG Chiefs franchise, as preparations continue ahead of the club’s planned entry into the NRL in 2028.

The visit forms part of early-stage engagement by the expansion side as it develops its long-term player pathways, infrastructure, and operational structure.

Luai was accompanied during the tour by PNG Chiefs Chief Executive Officer Lorna MacPherson and General Manager of Football Michael Chammas, as the club continues discussions with stakeholders in preparation for its future debut.

Luai is currently contracted to the Wests Tigers under a deal reportedly worth around $1.2 million per season, with structured options and extensions included.

While his long-term future continues to attract public interest, there has been no confirmation of any agreement or negotiations involving the PNG Chiefs yet.

At this stage, the franchise has not announced any player signings, with officials maintaining that recruitment discussions remain in the exploratory phase.

The PNG Chiefs continue to focus on infrastructure development, operational planning, and stakeholder engagement as they build toward their expected entry into the competition.

Any potential involvement of marquee players such as Luai would form part of a broader recruitment strategy aimed at building a competitive squad for the club’s inaugural season in 2028.

For now, the situation remains at an early development stage, with no formal commitments made regarding player movements or signings.

Meanwhile, Jerome Luai was seen this afternoon at Sir John Guise Stadium in Port Moresby city where he was seen sitting with Prime Minister James Marape at the grandstand watching a game of footy.