The Otago Daily Times understands the openside has inked a deal.
Details of the agreement are unclear — whether it is a full contract or a wider training squad deal, for example — but anyone with eyes can see why the Highlanders have shown interest despite having a full roster of loosies.
The Kaikorai forward was the Dunedin division 1 club player of the year, and he has continued that form in the NPC.
Casey started the Otago season behind Harry Taylor, but he has made the No7 jersey his own with some impressive performances.
None was more sparkling than his two-try effort in the successful Ranfurly Shield challenge against Canterbury at the weekend.
The 22-year-old bumped his way through the defensive line and sprinted 40m or so to score his second.
He had to get around the fullback to get to the line and did it with a flourish. He swerved in, he swerved out and he hit the accelerator.
Casey has six tries in eight games for Otago this season.
But, as madly talented as he is, Casey will need to be patient at the next level, as he will be joining a Highlanders loose forward squadron with plenty of ability and experience.
Veveni Lasaqa, Sean Withy, Hugh Renton, Will Stodart, Oliver Haig, TK Howden, Hayden Michaels and Nikora Broughton are all expected to return in 2026.
Casey is unlikely to immediately displace Lasaqa or Withy at No 7.
The Highlanders did not respond when approached for comment yesterday.
