Canberra's frustrating search for a replacement fullback for Anthony Milford continues, the Raiders missing out on their latest recruitment targets – Gold Goast flyer David Mead and Roosters youngster Tautau Moga.
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The Raiders had been closely monitoring Mead's situation at the Titans, given the 25-year-old has expressed a desire to play fullback, where he starred for NSW Country Origin this season.
But Mead, who has been used primarily on the wing by the Gold Coast, remains contracted to the Titans until the end of the 2016 and has been denied permission to talk with rival clubs.
Moga, once described as the next Israel Folau, is the latest player to reject an offer from the Raiders. The Roosters would like to retain the 20-year-old, who has been hindered by injury and playing NSW Cup, but it looks more likely he will leave at season's end.
The Raiders are still eyeing the market for a star No.1 following Milford's decision to shift to Brisbane from next season.
Officials thought they had their man when Wests Tiger custodian James Tedesco signed a three-year deal worth almost $2 million. However, the desire to continue playing alongside his mates at the joint-venture club proved too strong and he used the round 13 ''cooling off period'' to change his mind, even though it came at a significant financial cost.
The Raiders have previously held talks with Mead about coming to the capital.
While Titans coach John Cartwright has opted to go with former Raiders junior William Zillman as his first-choice fullback, Mead remains in Gold Coast's plans.
"As far as we are concerned, he has a contract here for another two years," Gold Coast chief executive Graham Annesley said.
"Of course we accept that fullback is his preferred position but that is the coach's call."
Manager Brendan Bourke did not back away from Mead's desire to play fullback, but confirmed the Papua New Guinea international would remain at the Titans.
"So all the talk of him moving is a bit early," Bourke said.
"Of course we want the fullback spot at the Titans; David was outstanding when he played there. Competition for spots inside a club brings out the best in everybody."
The Raiders have money to spend under their salary cap but have failed to strike a blow in the player market despite offering ''overs'' for a raft of stars.
Tedesco knocked back the club, as did Canterbury captain Michael Ennis, Penrith winger Josh Mansour and Melbourne forward Kevin Proctor.
Despite having a war chest, Canberra coach Ricky Stuart has insisted he will not panic in his recruitment and spend the money in a lean player market. Canberra's focus remains on attracting potential marquee talent.
But it is understood that reports linking Canberra to Newcastle's Darius Boyd, North Queensland's Robert Lui and NRL bad boy Arana Taumata are off the mark.
The Green Machine may release former representative forward Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, who is being considered as a potential fill-in for injured Queensland prop Matt Scott. The Cowboys want to strike a deal before the June 30 deadline. St George Illawarra and Melbourne could also provide options for the 28-year-old.
