The Roosters will likely be unsuccessful in persuading Joseph Suallii to reconsider his $5 million deal with Rugby Australia. This assertion comes from veteran journalist Phil Rothfield, following reports suggesting that the Roosters are making efforts behind the scenes to extricate the young talent from his agreement.
Suallii has committed to a three-year contract with Rugby Australia starting from 2023. Despite a recent 2GB report indicating the Tricolours’ attempts to convince him to change his mind, especially in light of fellow centre Joey Manu’s anticipated move to French rugby.
Rothfield shared on NRL 360 Monday night that he doubts even the influential Roosters can manage this feat. He revealed, “Just before I came on air, I spoke to Phil Gould, Rugby Australia’s chief executive, and there have been rumors circulating in the city for the past 48 hours suggesting that Joseph Suaalii may reconsider his Rugby Australia contract.
” Rothfield continued, “Phil Waugh insisted that this will not happen, and that Suaalii is committed for three years.”
Rothfield pointed out, “The Roosters have lost Joey Manu, so they cannot approach Suaalii and try to persuade him to breach the rugby contract because it would be against the law.” Additionally, he highlighted, “The Roosters face another challenge; even Nick Politis or the Roosters’ salary cap cannot find $1.5 million to match the rugby offer.”
Consequently, Rothfield concluded, “Based on my information, it appears that Suaalii will indeed proceed to join rugby for three years.”
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