After missing out on Murray, who has re-signed with the Rabbitohs until 2028, McLennan is working hard behind the scenes to secure Crichton’s offer.

The Rugby League World Cup winner’s management said their client is reviewing the offer, with RA waiting for an answer.

Crichton is still contracted at the Roosters next year, but there is a chance he may be released and would be free to join rugby in 2024 should he wish to.

The surprising element to the deal is it would see Crichton head west and play for the Western Force in Super Rugby Pacific.

The Force, under coach Simon Cron, are building a strong roster, with Wallabies halfback Nic White and five-eighth Ben Donaldson heading to Western Australia next year for a fresh start.

It would be a big move for Crichton, who grew up in country NSW and went to school in Sydney. He has played all of his professional career in the Harbour City.

However, the bigger talking point for rugby fans to accept is that game’s decision makers are splashing more money at a cross-code star when the Wallabies’ World Cup woes have prompted cries for investment in grassroots and pathways programs.

McLennan declined to comment.

Crichton’s offer is worth about $800,000 per season, said a source who did not want to be named because the contract details are confidential.

After spending a reported $1.6 million per year to get Suaalii to switch codes from 2025 onwards, the news will certainly raise eyebrows.

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RA will conduct a review into the Wallabies after their dismal World Cup campaign that is likely to see the men in gold exit in the pool stages.

Watch all the action from Rugby World Cup 2023 on the Home of Rugby, Stan Sport. Every match streaming ad-free, live and in 4K UHD with replays, mini matches and highlights available on demand.

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