The Sydney Roosters are determined to retain their valuable center, Joseph Manu, as he approaches the end of his contract in 2024. The club is confident that Manu will choose to re-sign with them. Manu is currently one of the most sought-after players in the NRL, and there’s already been speculation about offers, including a report in the Sydney Morning Herald indicating that the Dragons have proposed a substantial deal of over $1 million per season for the next four years.
Shane Flanagan, the incoming coach of the Dragons, has expressed interest in bringing Manu to their team. Given the lucrative offer and the opportunity to play as a fullback with the Red V, it’s conceivable that Manu might be tempted. However, the Roosters won’t have a vacancy at fullback until James Tedesco retires, which isn’t expected to happen in the next two seasons.
Despite the reported interest from the Dragons, Trent Robinson, the Roosters’ coach, has voiced his belief that Manu will remain with the Roosters. Robinson stated on SEN Radio, “I’ve seen the commentary around that (Dragons’ reported offer to Manu)… Joey is a Rooster, I don’t expect him to go anywhere.”
Manu has previously re-signed with the Roosters, despite significant attention from both the NRL and rugby union. He has expressed that the Roosters feel like home to him. While money may play a role, the Roosters have flexibility within their salary cap, as they have only officially signed nine players for 2025 so far, which allows them to potentially increase their offer to the New Zealand international star.
Robinson also mentioned that, as of now, it appears that the Dragons have not initiated discussions with Manu. He acknowledged Flanagan’s effort to rebuild the Dragons but indicated that they may have announced their interest in order to contact Manu’s manager, as direct discussions haven’t taken place yet.
Manu, along with more than 170 other NRL players coming off-contract at the end of 2024, has been eligible to negotiate with rival clubs since November 1.
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