Carayannis predicts Dragons spending spree after Holmes reunites with Flanagan

The Daily Telegraph’s Michael Carayannis has revealed why the North Queensland Cowboys were more than happy to get star centre Valentine Holmes off their books for the 2025 season.

Holmes was granted a release from the final year of his contract with North Queensland to pursue a three-year deal with the St George Illawarra Dragons worth a reported $2.5 million.

The 29-year-old was set to trigger a seven-figure deal in 2025 but given his poor form this season and the large amount of money tied elsewhere on the roster, the Cowboys were content for the Dragons to pick up Holmes’ salary.

“The Cowboys elected to move him on because his contract next year is $1.15 million,” Carayannis said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.

“That’s a huge salary and would make him one of the highest paid players in the competition.

“Val hasn’t been at his best so far this year so the Dragons will pay around $800,000-$850,000 for Holmes which is still significant.

“The Cowboys will also tip in a little bit. They will tip in around ($300,000) next year.

“Don’t forget that the Cowboys have also chipped in this year for Luciano Leilua to play for the Dragons.”

Holmes rejoins former coach Shane Flanagan whom he won a competition under in 2016 for the Cronulla Sharks.

Carayannis forecasts more big-name signings for the Dragons who have suddenly become a destination club following their on-field success in 2024.

“It’s clear that their next target is a middle,” Carayannis added.

“An experienced middle forward is what they are on the lookout for and Reagan Campbell-Gillard is at the top of their list.

“Another option is Daniel Saifiti and they have also been linked to Corey Horsburgh.

“If the Dragons can find a way to get a two-year deal done, then I think they will be looking at Campbell-Gillard for next season as well.

“One of the criticisms of the Dragons roster is that outside of Ben Hunt, there are no leaders in that team. They struggled to find a captain when he was missing.

“That’s what the incoming Damien Cook brings, that’s what Valentine Holmes brings and that’s what potentially Saifiti or Campbell-Gillard will bring.”

The Dragons currently sit ninth on the ladder and have a must-win match against the Gold Coast Titans on Sunday to remain in finals contention.