Jason Ryles could be granted an early release from his contract at the Storm ahead of his move to Parramatta next season.
According to 9News and The Sydney Morning Herald reporter Michael Chammas, the 45-year-old will meet with officials after the State of Origin decider to discuss his immediate future at Melbourne.
Ryles was signed as an assistant until the end of the year, but could be allowed to leave earlier than expected in a bid to focus on his next role.
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“Melbourne Storm are preparing to release Jason Ryles from his contract, effective immediately to begin starting work with the Parramatta Eels,” Chammas said.
“There will be a meeting later this week that the Storm and Ryles are both open to the conversation. Sometime after Origin they will part ways, allowing Ryles to start planning the roster and his coaching staff for 2025.
“It will give him oversight, get his feet under the desk and begin planning.”
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One of the first orders of business for Ryles will be convincing young gun Blaize Talagi to remain in the blue and gold long-term.
Talagi has received interest from the Dragons, Dolphins and Knights after a stellar rookie season and remains unsigned at Parramatta.
The early departure of Ryles isn’t expected to derail Melbourne’s premiership aspirations, with Craig Bellamy having a plethora of other assistants.
Trent Barrett will remain at the helm for the Eels for the rest of this season as the interim head coach.