Burns set for shift to Kennel

THE Bulldogs’ overhaul from their wooden spoon season continues, with overlooked South Sydney centre Braidon Burns in their sights.

Burns wasn’t selected in the Rabbitohs’ grand final line-up for Sunday’s clash with Penrith and was named in the reserves by coach Wayne Bennett.

Without a contract at the Bunnies for next season, Burns has also fielded interest from Wests Tigers and Cronulla.

However, it is the Dogs who are moving to sign the 25-yearold, tabling a two-year deal.

Burns would provide further depth to the Bulldogs’ backline and immediate cover for young centre Aaron Schoupp, who could miss the start of next season following shoulder surgery.

Burns has played 40 games since 2017, with his career stymied by a serious knee injury.

The signing of Burns would also add to the Bulldogs’ impressive list of new recruits for 2022, which includes Brent Naden, Josh Addo-carr, Matt Burton, Tevita Pangai Jr and Paul Vaughan.

Canterbury’s potential acquisition of Burns has sparked discussion among rival clubs that winger Nick Cotric could be squeezed out but the Bulldogs have the salary cap room for both.

“Never happening,’’ Bulldogs boss Phil Gould said on Twitter when asked if Cotric was talking to Parramatta.