South Sydney player Latrell Mitchell has suggested that Canberra Raiders star Jack Wighton should join himself and Cody Walker at their club, claiming that a premiership is the only thing missing from his career. Speaking at a press conference, Mitchell stated that while it was unlikely that South Sydney would have the salary cap space to accommodate Wighton, the Raiders player would be a perfect addition to the team if he chose to make the move. Mitchell and Wighton have a close bond, despite their recent arrest for fighting in a public place, and Mitchell believes that Wighton would be able to take the team to the next level if he joined.
Raiders coach Ricky Stuart stated that he wants Wighton to remain with the club but that the decision is ultimately up to the player. Wighton has until the middle of the season to decide whether or not to take up an option on his deal for 2024. He’s already won numerous awards in his career, including a World Cup, Origin series, Dally M Medal and Clive Churchill honours, but has yet to win a premiership.
Even if Wighton were to make the move, he would need to accept a positional shift to centre as Cody Walker is already occupying the five-eighth spot. However, Walker stated that he would be open to the move if it were feasible. “I don’t know where the salary cap sits, but if they went after him how would you say no?” he said. “He can play anywhere. He’s just got that grit and that will to win.”
Mitchell acknowledged that ultimately, the decision is up to Wighton to make, but stated that he would love the Raiders star to join them at South Sydney. “It would be another element,” he said. “But we don’t have a sombrero. I want Jack to make his own decision and do it for his kids and his partner. That’s all that matters – to be happy.”