Why in-demand Ciraldo would be “leaning towards” the Tigers

Cameron Ciraldo could have his eyes on the Wests Tigers coaching job, according to The Daily Telegraph’s David Riccio.

Tigers chairman Lee Hagipantelis has refused to guarantee Michael Maguire’s future in the role which has created plenty of speculation.

The Tigers have reportedly made Ciraldo their number one target, but will the Panthers assistant - who is also on the radar of the Bulldogs - be on the move?

Riccio suggests he might be interested by the Tigers if his next Penrith deal is not to his liking.

“My indications are that there is an appetite to have a look at this,” he said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.

“Where 12 months ago it wasn’t the case for Cameron Ciraldo. He was still imbedded with the Panthers, they hadn’t won the premiership yet and he was still on contract.

“The difference is he doesn’t have a contract with the Panthers beyond this season.

“He his one of the highest paid assistant coaches and deservedly so. I don’t think due to some financial pressures in the support staff area at the Panthers, that next deal that he is due to negotiate over the next few weeks will be as forthcoming.

“That opens the door for a significant pay day with the Wests Tigers. I understand one of the major lures for Cameron to start his coaching career is to work at a development club.

“That’s his strongest strength, working with next gen(eration) talent from under-20s up and really nurturing and basically taking them to the next level.

“There isn’t a player at the Panthers that Cameron Ciraldo doesn’t have his fingerprints on. Everyone of those stars, he’s coached.”

Riccio believes Ciraldo would prefer the Tigers over the Bulldogs.

“My mail is, if the two jobs came up for Cameron Ciraldo, he’s leaning towards the Tigers,” he added.

Listen to Riccio below: