Melbourne Storm announce huge triple deal but what about Cameron Munster?
Melbourne Storm have secured the futures of Jahrome Hughes, Harry Grant and Xavier Coates who have all penned contract extensions.
Grant had been heavily linked with a move to the Dolphins but now all the rumours will stop. The dummy-half is locked in until the end of 2025 at least. It is reported Grant’s deal is worth $1million per season.
Reports also say that the Dolphins offered more over four years but Grant wanted to stay.
Hughes has also committed and will stay until 2026, the same as Coates who had his deal extended. The winger has only just arrived from the Brisbane Broncos but has been secured to fresh terms.
Melbourne Storm make big statement
The signings are a big statement of intent by the Storm. The club labelled the announcement as one of the most significant in their history. And chairman Matt Tripp is excited for the future.
Melbourne had already tied star fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen down until the end of 2025. Reimis Smith, Christian Welch and Jack Howarth are also tied to long-term deals.
“To have players the calibre of Harry, Jahrome and Xavier all committed to our club for a long period gives us great confidence heading into the future,” Tripp said.
“We now have a quality spine, our skipper, an exciting winger and some great young talent all locked away for a few years.
“They are quality players and, more importantly, quality people. We are proud of the strong culture we have built across the entire club and will always work hard to keep good people.”
What now for Munster?
The Storm made the announcement at Friday’s 2012 premiership-winning team’s 10-year celebrations. As exciting as the announcement is, the Melbourne faithful will now be wondering about Cameron Munster.
It looks as though a switch to the Dolphins for the start of 2023 is on the cards. After missing out on Grant super-coach Wayne Bennett will now use the money to go for Munster.
Bennett is keen to land a marquee signing and has also been linked with Kalyn Ponga. Reece Walsh in another option but it is thought Munster is the man he wants.
It is reported that Munster would now have to take a pay cut to stay at Melbourne. And with good money on offer in Redcliffe he is unlikely to accept reduced terms.
Kenny and Jesse Bromwich have already agreed to join the NRL’s newest franchise for next year. And there is now a chance Munster will join them.