The Newcastle Knights and Wests Tigers have been two of the more active clubs upon the opening of the NRL free agency after reportedly agreeing to a Jackson Hastings – David Klemmer swap deal.
The deal comes as a bigger surprise for the Tigers who were heavily rumoured to be sending Luke Brooks' mammoth contract to the Hunter in exchange for either Klemmer or Tyson Frizell.
Hastings was one of the Tigers’ best players in 2022 after building a solid connection with Adam Doueihi and becoming one of the more versatile options in attack.
However, with Luke Brooks firming to spend the rest of his career at Wests, Hastings became a causality of Tim Sheens’ future planning but was used to bolster the Tigers’ pack with the addition of Klemmer.
“A week ago, Tim Sheens told us (AAP) that Jackson Hastings would definitely be at the club Round 1 next year and that was always every chance of not being the case,” Zac Bailey said on SEN 1170 Mornings.
“I think they (both clubs) win, reality is Newcastle desperately needs a half, the way they fell apart last year was embarrassing, (and) the Tigers have one too many halves, some would suggest.
“They also need to beef up their forward pack, looks like they’re going to get John Bateman as well, once you throw him and David Klemmer into the mix, it’s a bit pretty handy forward pack.
“It’s a pack that should make finals, but it’s another story about their backline and halves maybe, but as far as their pack goes it’s a pretty decent pack, so I think they both win.
Bailey theorised that Hastings’ departure may ensure Brooks’ future at the club but suggested that he would be better off at another club
The Tigers and Knights are both yet to confirm the deal, but an official announcement is expected in the coming days.