Chipperfield remains a firm target of Fury and the two parties are in talks over a potential switch. A deal is not yet done although Ian Ferguson remains optimistic.

He hopes Fowler's capture can sway potential playign recruits in the same way it has sent out a strong, positive message to would-be sponsors.

And he's hoping that's especially true in the case of Chipperfield, a Liverpool fan.

Ferguson told the Townsville Bulletin: "Not just him (Chipperfield), but hopefully people will see the calibre of people we're trying to get in and we're hoping that will entice them to come to North Queensland anyway.

"But getting Robbie over the line is obviously a big plus for us and other players who do see that would love the chance to come up to North Queensland to play beside him."

Fury have assembled 14 members of their inaugural squad so far, including Fowler, Ufuk Talay, Robbie Middleby and Brendon Santalab.