MELBOURNE Storm is primed to make a major play for Queensland Origin and former Test back-rower Michael Crocker.
Crocker is almost certain to leave the Sydney Roosters at the end of the season after being told by the club it can't afford to upgrade his salary.
Crocker has a get-out clause in his current contract, which expires in 2006. It enables him to talk to other clubs between June 1 and July 31 of this year.
Storm chief executive Brian Waldron last night confirmed Storm would approach Crocker early next week.
"We are going to have a real crack at him," Waldron said last night.
"He is on the market, he is an Origin and international rep player and we would be mad not to have a look at him.
"I know the coach has a high opinion of him, and we feel he would be a great addition to our forward stocks."
Renowned as an aggressive defender and strong ball carrier, Crocker would bring an element of mongrel to the Storm pack. The club has been without a recognised enforcer since Danny Williams' career was ended by his infamous strike on Wests Tigers back-rower Mark O'Neill and subsequent 18-match ban last year.
Crocker has been linked to the new Gold Coast franchise, which will take the field in 2007. But it is understood he has some family in Melbourne, which may help Storm entice the tough forward south.
"We have been told he is interested, now we have to see how interested," Waldron said. Storm remains hopeful of retaining strike centres Matt King and Steven Bell, with King expected to agree to a new deal early next week.
Halfback Matt Orford is continuing to consider his options. But it seems likely he will turn his back on rich English Super League deals to remain in the NRL
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