The PNG Chiefs have landed their first signing, with try-scoring machine Alex Johnston confirming on Instagram that he’s set to play for them in 2028 when they join the competition.
While all eyes had been on Wests Tigers playmaker Jarome Luai after his visit over the weekend, a simple two word post of ‘Yesssss sirrrrrrr” on social media suggests the Chiefs have landed the signature of the game’s most prolific try-scorer.
Johnston, 31, has another year to run on his Rabbitohs deal and is then expected to make the move north, with the legendary winger having played 12 Tests for the Kumuls.
It would be a marquee signing for the expansion team, with the promise of tax-free dollars a huge incentive for players to join.
Johnston made his NRL debut with the Rabbitohs in 2014 and has scored a record 219 tries for the club. He has been honoured with a statue in front of their headquarters in Maroubra.
It was at the statue unveiling in March that the PNG representative spoke of his desire to sign with the Chiefs when they enter the comp in 2028.
“It’d be cool to be the first signature over there, but I bleed red and green. I’ve still got this year and next year at the club,” he said at the time
“If I’m still kicking and still got some miles on these legs, I’ll go from there and see where I end up.
“I love this club. I’ve always wanted to be a one-club player, and I’m in this position now. Things could go either way.
“They just love rugby league so much over there, the Chiefs, every week they’ll get massive support.
“It’s something I probably want to be a part of.
“Obviously, I’d love to stay at Souths. But the footy over there, I think everyone needs to experience it. I fell in love with the game of footy going over there.”
The Chiefs have also been linked with Luai’s services for their inaugural season, with the rep star flying to PNG over the weekend before he was greeted by a horde of journalists when he arrived back in Sydney on Monday night.
Luai has a clause in his Tigers deal that has to be activated this week, with the champion playmaker able to play on for one more season and then join the Chiefs if he wants.
Originally published as South Sydney star Alex Johnston signs with PNG Chiefs weeks after setting NRL record
