The Roosters are actively exploring options to secure Joseph Suaalii’s continued presence with the team, despite his existing lucrative rugby union contract worth $4.5 million. This effort has intensified, especially with the impending departure of fellow centre Joey Manu to French rugby.
Neil Breen revealed on 2GB radio the Roosters’ determined endeavors to ensure Suaalii remains part of the club, amid ongoing speculation. He outlined the strategic considerations surrounding Suaalii’s potential return to rugby league, especially in light of Manu’s imminent move.
“It’s all about Joseph Suaalii, and I can confirm that the Roosters are working tirelessly to retain him,” he said. “With Joey Manu heading to French rugby and considering James Tedesco’s aging, securing Suaalii becomes even more crucial.”
While acknowledging the complexities of existing contracts, Breen emphasized the Roosters’ unwavering commitment to exploring every avenue to keep Suaalii.
“The challenge here might be that his management could argue to rugby union, ‘Hold on a second, if you’re now willing to release us from this contract, there should be some form of compensation.’ We’ve already committed to the deal, after all,” he explained.
Breen also highlighted the wider implications across both rugby codes, with rugby league clubs showing interest in players from rugby union.
“These players are frustrated about the whole situation where someone is coming from rugby union and earning such a substantial amount of money,” he observed, mentioning potential discontent among players like Jordan Petaia.
“And I can confirm that one club interested in him is the Dragons. They’re considering him because they need to sign some players,” he added.
