Rabbitohs halfback close to joining Perth Bears in major signing

The Perth Bears are reportedly close to securing a significant recruitment win, with South Sydney Rabbitohs halfback Jamie Humphreys said to be close to joining the expansion club as part of their inaugural squad build for 2027.

Speaking on The Continuous Call Team’s Offload Podcast, journalist Adrian Proszenko indicated Humphreys is close to agreeing to a three-year deal to head west, in what would be a major early signing for Perth and a loss for the Rabbitohs.

Humphreys has been in discussions with South Sydney over an extension for several months, with his future remaining uncertain and talks stalling amid ongoing cap pressure from roster changes like the shock signing of superstar Payne Haas.

The 25-year-old, a former Manly Sea Eagles half, is viewed as a versatile option capable of covering halfback, five-eighth and hooker, with the ability to fill in through the middle when required.

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He previously emerged as a surprise first-choice No.7 at South Sydney last season before recently losing that role in the side’s rotation to Ashton Ward.

The Bears currently have Tyran Wishart and Toby Sexton among their early signings, so adding Humphreys would intensify interest as to how the Bears fit three halves into two spots if the signing is indeed confirmed.

If the signing is confirmed, it seems highly likely Humphreys would be an early candidate to play hooker, though the report indicating he was close to signing specifically said the Bears were signing him as a half.

Humphreys’ potential arrival is another early indication of Perth’s intent to secure versatile and hardened players capable of covering multiple roles as they prepare for their debut season in the competition.

Rabbitohs halfback close to joining Perth Bears in major signing

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