Ten stars, 20 days: The marquee men poised to hit the open market on November 1

NRL clubs and the incoming PNG Chiefs are preparing for the November 1 free agency period as ten marquee players face potential open-market status. Penrith Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary heads the list as the premier target despite a preliminary final leg injury, alongside Sydney Roosters playmaker Sam Walker and Melbourne Storm star Cameron Munster. If agreements are not reached before the deadline, these high-profile players can formally negotiate with rival clubs.

Other notable figures featured include South Sydney Rabbitohs' Latrell Mitchell, Dolphins centre Herbie Farnworth, and Canberra Raiders forward Hudson Young, who has been offered a four-year deal. Wests Tigers' Samuela Fainu, Canterbury's Matt Burton, Melbourne's Harry Grant, and Newcastle's Bradman Best could also spark bidding wars as new franchises enter the market.