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Blues State of Origin star Will Hopoate is only days away from formalising his future with the Bulldogs.
The Parramatta star has been at odds with the Eels for much of this year over a contract dispute and his future has been in limbo.
Hopoate has been holidaying in Bali this week and has told friends he has all but agreed to sign with the Bulldogs, despite a late bid by Melbourne to sign him up.
The tall utility back is contracted to the Eels for next season but Parramatta are more than happy to let him go to free up salary cap space and end the messy dispute over his contract value.
Former chief executive Scott Seward signed Hopoate to a huge deal that the Eels believe they can no longer afford and stay under the salary cap.
The Eels may still may have to pay some of Hopoate’s wage when he moves to the Bulldogs, however.
The former Manly centre/winger had a fairly ordinary season at club level for the Eels this year but Des Hasler is a big fan of his talents.
Tall and strong, Hopoate has the ability to again become a top class finisher in the talented Bulldogs backline.
http://www.sportal.com.au/league/nr...anterbury-bulldogs/16ja3huy1a3zr1k72r4c4h9gq0