Sydney Roosters halfback Sam Walker is open to a switch to rugby union and a possible Wallabies tilt at next year’s Rugby World Cup in Australia, his manager has said, after the club withdrew a long-term offer.
Walker’s manager, Clinton Schifcofske, told Fox Sports the 24-year-old would consider a move once the Rugby League World Cup is over, after Code Sports reported he may explore a one-year stint in rugby.
“Sam would look at the opportunity, yes,” Schifcofske said. “No one has reached out from rugby (Australia) but it’s not something Sam would rule out.”
“He was a star in rugby as a teenager – he was an absolute freak. In rugby, you can make a few mistakes and have a bit more freedom, which suits Sam’s style,” he said.
Roosters offer withdrawn
Fox Sports, citing Code Sports, said Walker is weighing his options after a reported $4.2 million deal with the Roosters fell through. The premiers removed their three-year offer last month, and Walker has one year left on his current contract. The club is reportedly willing to part ways before the 2027 season.
He has reportedly received inquiries from three other NRL clubs. Schifcofske said salary-cap space is tight across the competition. “That’s the issue for next year,” he said. “I don’t know how many clubs can afford him. No one has a lot of space in their salary cap, so it’s going to be difficult.”
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news.com.au reported that the Sydney Morning Herald said on Sunday the Queensland Reds have been in discussions with Walker’s camp. A Super Rugby move would need Rugby Australia’s financial backing. Code Sports reported Rugby Australia could put together a deal worth about $800,000 a season. Walker’s 2027 NRL salary has been reported at around $1.05 million.
Door open at Rugby Australia
Rugby Australia chief executive Phil Waugh was asked last month about recruiting Walker and said the door was open. “We’ve been consistent on this, about creating an environment where we want players, as many great players as we can, coming into rugby,” Waugh said, according to Fox Sports. “We’ve said it a million times, the door’s open for athletes who want to achieve something great.”
“He’s one that’s obviously achieved great things in rugby league. With his skill set, he’s got the capability to play both codes at the highest level,” Waugh said.
Rugby Australia tried to sign Walker when he was 16. He represented Queensland schoolboys and played in Ipswich Grammar’s first XV for three straight years before focusing on rugby league. Another offer was put to him in 2019 when he left the Brisbane Broncos, but he joined the Roosters instead.
The Kangaroos and Queensland representative is a premiership winner with the Roosters. Neither Rugby Australia nor the Roosters have announced a deal, and Schifcofske said no formal approach from rugby has been received. Walker’s next move is expected to be considered after the World Cup.
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