Papua New Guinea international and budding talent Cooper Bai is set to follow in his father's footsteps after signing a multi-year deal with the Melbourne Storm.

The lock, 20, has inked a three-year contract with the Storm from 2028, having reportedly informed his current club — the Gold Coast Titans — that he would not stay with the club beyond next season.

The emerging star reportedly knocked back an offer from competition incomers PNG Chiefs after touring their facilities last month, and also had some interest from the Roosters.

Bai made his debut in a sole appearance for Gold Coast last year before adding 23 games in 2026.

His father, Marcus, played close to 100 games across six seasons and won the 1999 premiership with the Storm.

Bai was originally linked with a move south to Victoria at the end of last year before backflipping to stay on the Gold Coast.

"Cooper is an exciting young forward and a quality young man. He's made an impressive start to his career with the Gold Coast, and we're looking forward to supporting his continued development here in Melbourne," Storm director of football Frank Ponissi said.

"Cooper has great potential and we look forward to watching his continued development over the next 12 months before he joins us in 2028, which marks the 30th anniversary of our Club's inaugural season in 1998 featuring Cooper's father Marcus - making it even more significant."

Bai progressed into first grade via Queensland heavyweight club Burleigh Bears.

Making his international debut with Papua New Guinea in last year's Pacific Championships, Bai featured for the country at during their recent World Cup campaign.