The Vagana Saga

Nigel Vagana's days with the Bulldogs may not be numbered, with the National Rugby League (NRL) prepared to renegotiate a new contract with the Kiwis centre.

The club withdrew their latest offer last month and it seemed certain Vagana would head to the English Super League or join a rival NRL team.

However, Bulldogs chief executive Steve Mortimer said the club would be renewing their efforts to keep the 18-test veteran.

"Nigel is a priority," Mortimer said after the Bulldogs dispatched Manly 34-20 at the Sydney Showgrounds.

Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes singled out the 28-year-old for praise, describing Vagana's performance as "probably his best of the year".

Vagana scored a try but it was his defence that attracted the accolades as he saved the Bulldogs at least four times with one-on-one tackles.

While speculation continues about his playing future, Vagana was not about to add to the debate: "I haven't been thinking about it. I just want to concentrate on football."

Vagana will be free to negotiate with other NRL clubs when the June 30 anti-tampering deadline expires. The Cronulla Sharks are keen to sign him.