Taniela Tupou has channelled his inner Rod Tidwell by asking Rugby Australia to “show me the money” as the Wallabies star eyes a new multi-million dollar deal.
The 25-year-old ‘Tongan Thor’ has not only developed into one of the world’s premier props but is arguably now Australia’s most marketable player.
And after today signing off on a new collective bargaining agreement with the players association, RA is preparing to offer Tupou a lucrative, and flexible, contract extension beyond the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
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It is likely that Tupou will be looking at a deal in the $1 million-a-season ballpark but with the flexibility to supplement it offshore.
“Show me the money,” a laughing Tupou said, stealing a line from Jerry Maguire when asked whether he would consider another long-term contract with RA.
“I’m joking – I’m not joking though. Come on (Wallabies coach Dave) Rennie.”
RA chief executive Andy Marinos said his contracting team would “have to think creatively” to retain Tupou.
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That likely means offering a similar deal to the one afforded Wallabies captain Michael Hooper, who was allowed to take up a short-term, big money contract in Japan last year.
“He’s very important to the continued success of the team and I know he’s an integral part of Dave’s plans beyond 2023,” Marinos said.
“He gets through a huge amount of gametime, especially for a tighthead, and if you want to preserve and manage him you have to think creatively about how you can do that while still retaining his services going forward.”
Tupou indicated his preference would be to stay in Queensland, where he has thrived under tough love coach Brad Thorn.
“I’ve loved it. I’m so grateful for the Reds. They trust me… and I gave my all every year. I can’t picture being anywhere else,” Tupou said.
“I’ve got this year and next year (under contract). I’ll do everything I can to help this team win, but we’ll see how we go after that.”
The 135kg powerhouse also expressed his gratitude for the ‘Tries for Tonga’ initiative in the opening 10 rounds of the Super Rugby Pacific season.
RA has teamed up with Nine and Stan Sport to donate $500 per try for the Red Cross Pacific Tsunami Appeal.
Tupou’s parents live in tsunami-ravaged Tonga.
“My mum’s village is fine, but my dad’s island is gone, nothing there, but it could be worse,” Tupou said.
“It’s so good to see the rugby community helping each other.
“People are willing to help my little island country. You grow up with no phone, no nothing, so I’m sure some kids will appreciate some clothes, toys, books.”
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