Titans picking up Matthews with extra cash
GOLD Coast have handpicked their second target with their Jarryd Hayne’s cash – and it’s another local product.
Titans insiders have confirmed second-rower Will Matthews is set to sign for his second stint with the club.
It follows news of advanced talks between the Titans and Roosters No.1 Michael Gordon.
Matthews has already shown his hand, revealing he is moving back to the Gold Coast in a Widnes Vikings announcement about the 29year-old being released from his Super League contract on compassionate grounds.
“For family reasons, we have chosen to move back to the Gold Coast area where I will pursue my career,” he told the Vikings website.
“Whilst we were excited to move to the Vikings, we have ultimately reflected that we need to remain close to our family and support networks, which are important to us at this time.
“I signed my contract with Widnes Vikings in good faith and the circumstances we face are entirely unforeseen.”
Matthews hails from Kyogle and began his NRL career at the Gold Coast.
He played 33 games for the Titans from 2008 to 2011 before adding another 60 matches in Dragons colours.
Matthews was an NRL regular in 2016 but his campaign this year derailed after breaking his hip in a preseason trial. He signed for Widnes in September but will leave before making his club debut.
Meanwhile, maligned recruit Dan Sarginson’s exit from the Titans is expected to be confirmed by the weekend.
Sarginson is likely to return to the Super League after struggling with injury and form in the NRL.