The Gold Coast Titans forward has arrived in Papua New Guinea for talks with the PNG Chiefs, with the expansion club reportedly pursuing his signature ahead of its historic NRL debut in 2028.

THE race to secure Cooper Bai’s future is heating up, with the Gold Coast Titans forward arriving in Port Moresby on Wednesday evening, just hours after the PNG Chiefs unveiled their inaugural club logo and playing jersey in a landmark moment for Papua New Guinea rugby league.

Bai’s arrival has intensified speculation that the 19-year-old could become one of the newest recruits for the PNG Chiefs as the expansion franchise continues assembling its inaugural squad ahead of their 2028 NRL entry.

The Titans have granted Bai permission to speak with rival clubs after the young forward indicated he would not extend his current contract beyond the 2027 season. The development has opened the door for the Chiefs to pursue a player whose family heritage and connection to Papua New Guinea could make a potential move particularly significant.

While no official announcement has been made by the Chiefs, sources of information surrounding the developing situation indicate that discussions are underway over a possible deal that could see Bai become Chiefs player No. 008.

At this stage, neither a completed agreement nor Bai’s signing has been officially confirmed.