Walker extension set to rule out Mitchell

give them a double pre-Christmas celebration to launch the club into the post Sam Burgess era.

But in the latest twist to the NRL player market circus, News Corp can reveal that the Rabbitohs are now considering a late play for the exiled Sydney Roosters’ star.

This is despite the fact that the Rabbitohs were previously adamant Mitchell was not on their radar.

It is understood any potential interest will depend upon Walker’s decision. The fact is that Souths just don’t have the salary cap space available to fit in both Walker and Mitchell, unless Mitchell was to take a massive pay cut.

Given the Rabbitohs’ depth of backline talent it would seem unlikely this could happen, especially given the Wests Tigers are willing to pay Mitchell $1 million a season and let him play fullback.

The Gold Coast are also still in the frame and their interest could also be significantly influenced by what Arrow ends up doing.

But make no mistake, there are people of influence who believe Latrell ultimately ending up at Souths is now not as ridiculous as it might have appeared just days ago.

It is a strange situation that is made all the more intriguing by growing speculation that Mitchell’s relationship with his manager Wayde Rushton could be experiencing some difficulties.

It has even been suggested that the NRL needs to step in and offer some guidance to try to get this situation resolved before Mitchell is due back at training in early January.

While Walker’s negotiations have dragged on for the best part of a month, indications are that both parties are ready to strike a deal to keep the 29-year-old at the club until at least the end of 2022.