Originally Posted by Gold Coast Bulletin
Extra cash so Titans are now chasing Tuquiri
17Jan07
THE cashed-up Gold Coast Titans have set their sights on snaring Wallaby Lote Tuquiri following the shock retirement of Great Britain winger Brian Carney yesterday.
The loss of winger Carney came just hours after the Titans finalised a deal to trade troublesome 22-year-old winger Steve Turner back to Melbourne.
It also took the gloss off the news the club had picked up dual international Mat Rogers for the 2007 season.
Carney was signed for the next two seasons while Turner was to play in Titans colours for the next three.
The decisions by the pair to exit the club has freed up a substantial sum of money, which Searle now plans to put to good use and buy a marquee player for next season.
Searle will arrange a meeting with Tuquiri's manager within the next week or so.
"His agent contacted us saying he (Tuquiri) had a genuine desire to return to league," said Searle.
"I think definitely, we are in a good position now with our cap.
"If he was genuine about coming back to league I would rate us an equal chance as the next club to secure him.
"Our priority is to secure another marquee player, given we have the cash in our cap. Lote Tuquiri definitely fits into that category."