The Daily Telegraph’s David Riccio believes the Bulldogs are at long odds to retain the services of Jake Averillo.
Averillo has had a breakout campaign in 2023 in the centres and will be off contract come the end of the season.
Riccio says the Dolphins are circling the 22-year-old and will make an offer that will be hard to knock back.
“It’s highly unlikely (the Dogs keep him),” Riccio said on Averillo on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“This will be a significant blow for the Dogs.
“He’s been a real find and he’s come of age under Cameron Ciraldo as a centre.
“He has been sensational and it’s to the point where the Dolphins see what the rest of the world has seen and they are coming in big.
“It’s a significant offer and it’s upwards of $450,000 a season.
“He will potentially be heading up to Redcliffe to see the facilities of the Dolphins next week.
“If I’m a betting man, I’d say he’s gone and will sign with the Dolphins on at least a three-year deal.”
The Bulldogs have a major contract conundrum on their hands with Averillo’s centre partner, Paul Alamoti, also coming off contract at the end of the year.
Riccio said the focus for the Bulldogs has now shifted entirely to re-signing Alamoti.
“They have already started this process,” he added.
“Alamoti is a local junior and a solid talent adn they can’t afford to lose both (Averillo and Alamoti).
“If anything positive has come out of this season for Canterbury under Ciraldo, it’s the development of the younger players and cementing their positions.
“Alamoti’s signing has to be a priority.”
Alamoti and Averillo have been named to start in the centres for the Bulldogs’ Sunday afternoon match against the Cronulla Sharks.