Luke Metcalf has turned down a two-year extension offer from the New Zealand Warriors in favour of testing his worth on the open NRL market, where he hopes to field $1 million-a-year proposals from several clubs.
The 26-year-old will become a free agent on November 1 after his snap decision, with the St George Illawarra Dragons and Perth Bears both expected to put forward rich deals once they’re formally allowed to speak to the halfback.
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Metcalf has been earning around $550,000 a year at the Warriors and is signed for next year, but should command seven-figure deals in free agency following his breakthrough campaign this year. That stellar run was only cut short by an ACL injury that many have since claimed ended the Warriors’ season as well as the youngster’s hot streak.
The Dragons are eager to sign the Aussie no.7 to play alongside Daniel Atkinson, who runs out best as a five-eighth. The Bears, meanwhile, are still looking for a marquee signing to lead them in their inaugural campaign in 2027.
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Metcalf could also still take up the Warriors deal tabled in recent weeks, though that only runs across 2027 and 2028. The Sporting Base understands Metcalf wants more years in any deal that he’d put his signature on, as well as the big pay rise. That stance instantly puts New Zealand behind St George Illawarra and Perth in the emerging race.
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The only catch Metcalf may face will be Jarome Luai’s get-out clause at the Wests Tigers. Should he hit free agency on November 1 as well (because he carries an option in his favour and activates it), then any club in need of a halfback will prioritise the four-time NRL champion before looking to sign Metcalf.
Other off-contract halves include Jayden Campbell, Adam Reynolds, Ben Hunt, and Cody Walker.
