I agree with this to some extent. But you can talk to any player at any stage under the rules of the NRL as long as you don't formally offer him a contract before the 1st of Nov(or is it the 31st, I don't remember?) one year out from the final year of their current contract.
That gives you all the time in the world to show plenty of love and interest to any player under contract that may be open to offers way before they recommit with their current clubs. So if you are a well run club with a strong current football roster have a powerful leagues club, have what will probably be the best COE in the State and have the best Stadium and the best fan support, how hard is it to convince a young star to jump ship?
Sure wont get everybody, that's for sure, but there will be takers, that is also for sure. The point is we now have the luxury of having time on our hands and the clout to impress even the most difficult to impress. As an example, centre is a position we should be planing for right now to fill for 2022 when Jennings retires. There is very little excuse in getting it wrong. We should be always looking at grooming the best and all players love when a club, but in particular a head coach takes personal interest in them. That is the key for many players, that personal attention and bond from a coach and a clear massage on how to play. Add all the other great attractions our club has and we make a very persuasive argument for almost any player.