Unless the club could land one of the top 2 players in their position, then I don't think they'll be paying overs for them. I think this rules out John Bateman as he wants overs.
So Unless they can land somone like Payne Haas who still has at least 2 more seasons on contract making it very unlikely, then I think the club will look at buying players who provide value for money.
These types of players may be the ones being squeezed out of their current starting sides and/or off contract, or who are still contracted with their clubs looking to offload them & pitch in with some of their salary.
It may be the club looks at these options on only short term contracts as a stop gap whilst our key targets may be 12 months away from being available.
If they release Thompson & sack Elliott, I'd guess we need at least another Prop and now with Doorey doing his ACL we'll need 2 backrowers.
I'd like to say we could bye a gun Halfback & Hooker - but they are expensive & very few if any available.
There are a few players that I think could fit the above brief who may be available for next season. Not sure if their in the club’s sites though.