PARRAMATTA are poised to make a massive $2.1 million play for Penrith forward Luke Lewis - money that would blow away all offers from rival NRL clubs. The Daily Telegraph has been told that Parramatta, Newcastle, Cronulla and Wests Tigers are the clubs seriously vying for Lewis. The Eels, who confront arch-rivals Canterbury tonight at ANZ Stadium, want Lewis on a three-year deal.
Although mooted as a suitor, the Bulldogs have no interest in Lewis.
Parramatta have money to spend and are desperate to secure Lewis, who was released this week from the final two years of his Panthers deal.
The Eels, running equal last, believe Lewis would be the ideal replacement for retiring Nathan Hindmarsh.
Lewis, 28, wants to join a club that can win the premiership. That may not happen at Parramatta but the money might be too good for Lewis to refuse.
Parramatta coach Steve Kearney last night confirmed his club's interest.
"We are interested - like every other club," Kearney told The Daily Telegraph.
"We are competing with a lot of other clubs so we will have to wait and see. I couldn't give you an indication at this stage - we haven't sat down with him yet."
Asked whether he talks with Lewis, Kearney conceded: "Not formally."
The Lewis movement comes as rumours spread about North Queensland star Johnathan Thurston. Penrith are said to be preparing to make a massive offer for Thurston, off contract after next season.
Thurston though is unlikely to join the Panthers. Cowboys sources also hear of an interest from Canterbury.
"I spoke with Sam (Ayoub, Thurston's manager) earlier in the year in regards to Johnathan and we decided we wouldn't discuss it until after this year," said Cowboys football manager Peter Parr.
"Given the uncertainty around the salary cap, common sense would tell you to wait until there is more clarity. There is no need to rush."
Meanwhile, Kearney promised an improved performance tonight after his side's 40-24 loss to Manly last Sunday. The Eels did though score 24 unanswered points in the second half.
"We are dirty on ourselves so I am sure you will see an improved effort," Kearney said.
"We have to start this match like we started the second half."
