The Warriors star dropped a bomb on the NRL player market this month after requesting a release from his contract.

The star prop notified the Warriors of his intentions to return to Sydney, requesting an immediate release from the club on compassionate grounds.

But Warriors CEO Cameron George has since reassured Kiwi fans Fonua-Blake will remain with the club until the end of 2024 before he re-assesses his options from 2025 onwards.

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NRL clubs have been lining up to speak with Fonua-Blake since the November 1 deadline essentially made him a free agent.

However, The Daily Telegraph has now revealed the Warriors will apply strict rules and conditions surrounding its release of Fonua-Blake.

Those conditions include a demand that Fonua-Blake only sign with a Sydney-based club.

It means seven clubs are immediately out of the race.

It is sweet music to the ears of Dragons, Bulldogs, Tigers and Manly fans with all four clubs linked to Fonua-Blake.

The Roosters have reportedly pulled out of the race for his signature, with the Panthers and Eels also won’t be making a play.

The Dragons are reported to be the club that has shown the most interest with new coach Shane Flanagan having cash and salary cap space to burn.

Fonua-Blake is contracted until at least the end of 2026 on a deal worth about $1 million a season, making him one of the highest earning players in the NRL.

The Dally M prop of the year was a huge reason for the Warriors’ resurgence this year and his eventual departure is a huge blow for the Kiwi club.

Fonua-Blake initially explained his decision to leave the club was solely a result of “family reasons”.

“But I really want all Warriors fans to know that I am fully committed to getting into the 2024 season,” he said.

“I can’t wait to get back to training with my teammates.”

Fonua-Blake joined the Warriors following the 2020 season after also requesting a release on compassionate grounds from the Manly Sea Eagles.

He is now the hottest name on the NRL transfer market along with Jarome Luai, who is considering whether he stays at Penrith or moves elsewhere from 2025.