Jahrome Hughes’ manager will travel to Melbourne in coming weeks to hold truce talks with the Storm.
Hughes sent shock waves through Melbourne last week when he declared he may not take up the option on his contract for 2024.
The star halfback’s manager has already been inundated by inquiries from rival clubs in the past few days in the wake of that story.
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The NRL’s new franchise, the Dolphins, have been strongly linked to Hughes, with superstar coach Wayne Bennett the drawcard.
But Hughes’ manager Tas Bartlett told Wide World of Sports that the star halfback is far from lost to the Storm.
“The story last week created a bit of a ruckus but the reality is, it is still a long way off and Jahrome is loyal to Melbourne and happy there,” Bartlett said.
“I will go and have a chat to them when things settle down and if we can work out say a five year deal that will take him to age 32, we may take it.
“Of course he will be open to offers from rival clubs next November if we don’t come to terms but he is loyal to the Storm and hopefully we can sort something out.”
Manly signs Knights discard
The Sea Eagles have picked up a handy front-rower from Newcastle who could push for a top grade spot next season.
Christian Ma’anaima was in the Knights’ NRL squad this year but had no chance to show his wares behind the likes of the Saifiti brothers and David Klemmer.
The big middle forward turns 21 next year and will start the season in NSW Cup and wait for an opportunity.
A strong player with a good motor, he could prove another astute buy for the Sea Eagles, who picked up several bargain buys who excelled in their run to the finals in 2021.
Penrith snares boom rookie
The Panthers have scored a coup by beating both the Broncos and Titans to sign highly-rated young lock Carsil Vaikai.
The 20-year-old captained Tweed Seagulls to victory in the national under 18 championships a couple of years ago and also has also played for Queensland under 18s in State of Origin.
A mobile lock with good ball skills, he was hotly chased by the Titans and Broncos but decided his future lies with the premiers.
The 20-year-old ball-playing back-rower is expected to start next season in the Flegg Cup before being given a chance with the big boys.
Hodgson staying put
Josh Hodgson’s proposed move to the Tigers looks to be officially dead.
The switch looked a certainty a few weeks ago, with the Raiders keen to move Hodgson on and the Tigers in need of an experienced number nine.
But the Raiders have dug their heels in, refusing to pay any of Hodgson’s hefty contract money.
The Tigers would only play ball if the Raiders contributed to the deal, so the deal is off unless Canberra changes its stance.
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