St George Illawarra coach Shane Flanagan says the Dragons will not release Zac Lomax before the end of the season as the club considers a shock move for Wallabies star Jordan Petaia for 2025 and beyond.

The Herald can reveal the Dragons have opened discussions with Petaia’s management company, who also look after Sydney Roosters-bound Mark Nawaqanitawase, about linking with the Dragons once his Rugby Australia deal expires at the end of this year.

It comes as the Dragons and Lomax’s management have agreed to put conversations about Lomax’s future on ice until after round four to give St George Illawarra the best opportunity to start the year strongly under their new coach.

Petaia, who currently plays Super Rugby with the Queensland Reds, is also exploring rugby union options in France and Japan but has caught the eye of Flanagan.

The 24-year-old has represented the Wallabies on 27 occasions, including in the last two World Cups, and is seen as a potential fullback or centre in rugby league.

The Dragons could have an opening in the back line with the future of Lomax somewhat up in the air.

Lomax, who had one of his best games in a Dragons jersey in the club’s first-up win over the Titans on Saturday night, has been the topic of great conjecture recently as rival clubs circle the unsettled outside back.

Parramatta are one of the clubs who have expressed interest, but the Dragons insist Lomax doesn’t have permission to formally open negotiations with rival clubs.