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The PNG Chiefs have continued to prove that tax-free dollars are hard to ignore as they have confirmed cross-code star Joey Manu, who was recently linked with Hull FC, as their latest signing. Manu, a dual-code star, is currently playing rugby union after heading to play the 15-man game at the end of the 2024 season, representing Japanese side Kubota Spears before joining French club Racing 92 from 2025 onwards. In confirming his return to rugby league, he becomes the latest star to sign for the PNG Chiefs, who will of course be coached by Hull KR boss Willie Peters when they enter the NRL in 2028. So far, the Chiefs have signed the makings of a very impressive back line as Zac Lomax, Brian To’o, Alex Johnston, and now Manu have signed. They’ve also recruited Jarome Luai in the halves, Connor Watson, and their only Super League recruit so far, Matty Lees. The Chiefs have confirmed that Manu, who will be 32 by the time his PNG contract starts in 2028, has signed a two-year deal at the club, though the bigger questions now revolve around his immediate future. Fellow recruit Zac Lomax is in a similar situation in that he’s making a return from rugby union for 2028, however, there have been reports that Manu may play rugby league in 2027, and surprisingly Hull FC have been one of the club’s linked. The Black and Whites are on the lookout for a centre and Manu’s name started doing the rounds and club CEO Richie Myler failed to rule out a move when speaking to Love Rugby League, though he was not very committal either. He said: “If Joey Manu could come for a season, would we sign Joey Manu? If we had the capability to do that and the space to do that, would we be interested? I don’t know, I don’t know if it’s even fathomable that that would happen.” Whilst Manu’s future as PNG Chiefs signing #007 is sealed for 2028, what happens with him in 2027 is one to watch in case he does make an early return to rugby league.