Brisbane coach Anthony Seibold is confident the Broncos can hold off rival NRL clubs and retain youngster Jake Turpin.
The 22-year-old has enjoyed a breakout 2019 campaign, having made the most of a chance handed to him by a knee injury to hooker Andrew McCullough earlier in the season.
Turpin has stayed central to Seibold’s plans despite McCullough’s return and will fill in at halfback in Saturday’s clash with the Warriors at Suncorp Stadium.
Seibold says Turpin’s versatility and competitiveness are two attributes that have quickly made him a fan’s favourite at Red Hill.
“Jake’s just a footy player,” Seibold said.
“I know that sounds strange because they all play footy but he should’ve been playing in the ’80s or ’90s Jake, he’s a bit of a throwback, he’s a footy player.
“People probably walk straight past him on the street but he’s got a great personality that attracts people to him. People love chatting to him, people love hanging around him.
“He’s probably one of the most liked guys in the group as far as that’s concerned.”
Having secured forwards Matt Lodge and Tevita Pangai Junior to long-term deals this week, Seibold says securing the off-contract Turpin is the Broncos’ next big mission.
“We’ve certainly been in discussion with him, Turps knows what I think of him. He knows I want to keep him,” Seibold said.
“Turps wants to stay but there’s been a stack of interest.
“Like Tavita and Lodgey, Turps is only 22 so he’s got so many years left.
“There’s a lot of interest in him but we’re really optimistic we’ll keep him.”