The Dolphins “working on a deal” to get Cameron Munster on board says Wayne Bennett
The Dolphins coach Wayne Bennett says they are doing all they can to lure Cameron Munster to Redcliffe and he is quietly confident of getting a deal over the line.
Bennett has made another addition to his roster for the inaugural 2023 NRL campaign. North Queensland second-rower Tom Gilbert has agreed to make the switch for the start of next season.
Gilbert is the ninth addition to the Dolphins ranks as Bennett makes steady progress. The 21-year-old is a solid addition but Bennett is still missing the marquee signing he craves.
Marquee signing on Bennett radar
The super coach has already missed out on a host of big names including Harry Grant and Kalyn Ponga. Munster is now his remaining big hope and the Dolphins are pulling out all the stops to get it done.
Munster is under contract with the Melbourne Storm until the end of 2023. They are keen to tie him down beyond that and an offer is on the table. It would require him taking a pay cut though and opens the door to the Dolphins.
The Queensland State of Origin ace can accept offers for 2024 from 1st November this year.
“A lot of that [contract talk] is speculation, but we’re keen to have Cameron at Redcliffe, whether it’s in 2023 or 2024,” Bennett told 9News Queensland. “We’re working there with his management.”
Melbourne have already ruled out the possibility of Munster leaving in 2023. Even his management have said Munster loves Melbourne and will see out his deal at the very least.
Even so, Bellamy and the Dolphins will keep chipping away until Munster makes a decision.
“I’m not overly confident, but I’m not underly confident,” Bennet added. “There’s a fair bit to be done, but we feel we’re heading in the right direction in regards to our end of the bargain. Hopefully Cameron will want to come.”
The Dolphins ready to pay big
Munster now has a decision to make. It has been reported that his wages with Melbourne will drop from $1.2million a year to $750,000.
The Dolphins could match what he currently earns and that will be tempting. However if it is premierships he wants, he would be better off staying with the Storm.
There is also interest from elsewhere. The Brisbane Broncos have been tipped to enter the running at some point. The Bulldogs have also been mentioned.
Munster has been in outstanding form so far this season and all the talk is not having an impact on his game.