The Sydney Roosters have reportedly given Sam Walker until Monday to decide on a new contract, with the premiership-winning halfback said to prefer staying at the club rather than testing free agency.
Code Sports reported that the Roosters told Walker’s management they want an answer by next Monday, and that Walker has told his agent, Clinton Schifcofske, he would prefer to stay, Fox Sports reported.
Walker is on approximately $1.05 million a season and has been offered an upgraded deal that would give him a $350,000 pay rise each year, according to the report.
Walker’s current deal runs until the end of 2027, so he would be free to negotiate with rival clubs, including the incoming PNG Chiefs, from 1 November. The Roosters had not publicly commented on the reported deadline.
Kangaroos debut first
Before then, Walker is set to make his Test debut for Australia against Fiji at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane on Sunday, partnering Tom Dearden in the halves, NRL.com reported.
Read more: Kangaroos Team to Face Fiji: Tedesco Captains, Four to Debut
“I had a really clear goal for myself at the start of this year, how I wanted the year to go and you know, ticking the boxes so far, and there’s one more I’ve got to tick,” Walker told NRL.com.
The 24-year-old recovered from a syndesmosis injury suffered against the Dolphins in Round 26 to help the Roosters win the grand final against Newcastle.
Read more: Sam Verrills Set for Roosters Return on Reported $80k Development Deal
Roosters rebuild
The Roosters lose Mark Nawaqanitawase, Daly Cherry-Evans, Angus Crichton, Connor Watson, Daniel Tupou and Spencer Leniu for 2027 and beyond, according to Fox Sports. News Corp has also reported that the club are surprise favourites to sign Melbourne Storm prop Stefano Utoikamanu when the free agency window opens.
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