NSW Blues centre Bradman Best is reportedly going to reject interest from the Wests Tigers and re-sign on a mega-extension with the Newcastle Knights.
Best has been linked to the Wests Tigers on numerous occasions, with reports circulating that Benji Marshall was willing to make him one of the highest-paid centers in the game on a contract worth around $800,000 per season.
However, News Corp reports that Best is set to stay in Newcastle, inking a $2 million-plus contract deal amid the Wests Tigers’ poaching drive.
The Knights are said to have discussed a three-year extension that would keep him there until the end of 2026 for an estimated $700,000 per season. This implies he’ll make less money per season than the Tigers have offered him.
The 22-year-old, who enjoyed his finest season to date in 2023, is hoping to sign a new contract before the start of the 2024 NRL season.
“I want to stay here,” Best stated as the Knights begin their preseason, according to News Corp.
“The Tigers have expressed interest, and they are eager, but I need to weigh everything.”
“If everything goes as planned, I’ll be staying at the Knights.” We’ll see what happens, but I’m very happy here.
“I love the club and the culture we’ve created.” It would be difficult to leave the guys here because we are all so linked and close.
“The lifestyle here (in Newcastle) is unparalleled.” We’re talking now, and my manager is working on it.
He has become one of the hottest properties on the market, having earned his NSW Blues debut last season and scoring 13 tries from 25 appearances for the Knights.
Best got a double in his State of Origin debut as NSW overcame Queensland in the Game Three dead rubber contest.
The Newcastle Knights had a fantastic season finale in 2023 and will be hoping to build on it as they aim to win the Grand Final for the first time since 2001.
“I want to sort this contract stuff out, I don’t want it hanging around too long,” he said.
“I’m not in a hurry, but I also don’t want it to take all season.” It (a Knights agreement) shouldn’t be too difficult.
“I want to play consistent good footy for the club and hopefully win a competition for the Knights, which would be pretty special.”
“What we accomplished last year was incredible.” We knew we started the year poorly, but we also knew we had a particular side, and given how close we are, we realized how wonderful we might be.
“To win 10 games in a row and earn a home semi-final, this community was ecstatic, and it was an unbelievable buzz.”
“I’m fortunate to have clubs interested in me.” There are certain players who have no club interest in them and must return to the real world, look to Super League, or give up the game.”
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