According to club sources, speaking on the condition of anonymity due to the confidential nature of the talks, Souths officials have started discussions with the Sea Eagles about prising the prop out of his long-term deal on the northern beaches.

Keppie is under contract until the end of 2026, but has been given permission to negotiate with other clubs as the Sea Eagles overhaul their roster.

Manly have freed up roster spots by releasing Kelma Tuilagi (Eels) and Kaeo Weekes (Raiders) to accommodate the signings of Luke Brooks, Jaxson Paulo, Tommy Talau and Aitasi James – and won’t stand in Keppie’s way.

Keppie’s management has started talks with the Rabbitohs, who are trying to sneak under the guard of the Wests Tigers.

Many thought Keppie and Tigers cult hero Alex Twal would trade places, but the Rabbitohs have moved swiftly to intervene. Keppie has played 79 games for the Sea Eagles since his debut in 2019.

Whether the Sea Eagles would be willing to contribute some of his salary at the Rabbitohs is a sticking point in negotiations.

The Tigers have been interested in Keppie since giving Twal the green light to negotiate with rivals clubs despite having a year left on his deal, but now face serious competition from Jason Demetriou’s side.

The Souths coach has had his deal extended until the end of 2026, and was thought to have little salary cap space to improve his roster for 2024 outside of Jack Wighton’s arrival.

The Sea Eagles hope to re-sign veteran prop Lodge, despite tearing his ACL late in the season. He won’t be available until the second half of the 2024 campaign.