Daly Cherry-Evans will not be joining the Rabbitohs or Dragons, with both clubs ruling out their pursuit of the off-contract halfback.

What happened?

The Rabbitohs' coach, Wayne Bennett, stated that his club cannot fit Cherry-Evans under the salary cap, while negotiations are ongoing to re-sign veteran five-eighth Cody Walker.

The Dragons also indicated they would not chase Cherry-Evans, leaving the Dolphins, Roosters, and Canterbury as potential suitors.

Why it matters for Daly Cherry-Evans

Bennett predicted multiple clubs would shuffle their rosters to make a play for Cherry-Evans, citing his value as a halfback.

Cherry-Evans, 36, has been offered a two-year deal worth $1.4 million by Manly, but he has stated he would not accept it.

What comes next?

Manly is desperate to change Cherry-Evans' mind, but he has said 2025 would be his last season at Brookvale.

Bennett warned that the issue would be a distraction and not help the Sea Eagles' season, calling for trade windows to prevent such situations.

The veteran coach has long been a proponent of trade windows, pointing to their success in the AFL and other sports overseas.

Bennett claimed the issues went well beyond Manly, labelling it bad for the entire game.

He said, "This does nothing for the game. It does nothing for the club. It's wrong and I wish we'd fix it."

The NRL season has already provided some great football, but the focus has shifted to the pursuit of Cherry-Evans.

As of now, the Dolphins are known to be keen on Cherry-Evans, while the Roosters and Canterbury loom as likely options if he wants to remain in Sydney.

Bennett's comments come after Cherry-Evans said on national television that he would not accept the deal from Manly.

The situation has sparked debate about the need for trade windows in the NRL.

Bennett's call for trade windows has been echoed by some, who believe it would help prevent distractions and allow clubs to focus on the season.

But for now, Cherry-Evans' future remains uncertain, with several clubs vying for his signature.

And as the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Daly Cherry-Evans will be a key player in the NRL next season, wherever he ends up.

So, the question on everyone's mind is: where will Cherry-Evans end up?

The answer will have to wait, but one thing is certain: it will be a closely watched move.