The Sydney Roosters have withdrawn their contract extension offer to Sam Walker, leaving the premiership-winning halfback’s long-term future at Bondi in doubt just days before the November 1 free agency window opens.
The club confirmed the move in a statement on Monday night, saying Walker’s management had been told the offer was off the table.
“The Sydney Roosters have this evening advised the management of Sam Walker that the Club’s offer for a contract extension beyond the 2027 season has been withdrawn after the parties were unable to reach an agreement on terms,” the statement said.
“The Club remains focused on maintaining a Premiership-winning roster, with all recruitment and retention decisions made to support the strength, balance and long-term success of the playing squad.”
What was on the table
Fox Sports reported the Roosters had raised their offer from an initial $4.4 million over four years to $5.2 million, with ratchet clauses taking it closer to $6 million. Talks had reportedly been paused in August over a disagreement on Walker’s price tag.
Fox Sports also reported negotiations were said to be in their final stages, with Walker said to be seeking a deal before the Kangaroos’ World Cup clash with Cook Islands on Saturday.
Read more: Sam Walker Set to Decide Roosters Future Before Cook Islands Test
Walker wanted to stay
The 24-year-old had made it clear he wanted to remain at the club. “My preference is obviously to stay at the Roosters,” Walker said before the Kangaroos’ win over Fiji, as reported by AAP.
Walker is still contracted to the Roosters for the 2027 season. AAP reported he has played 109 NRL games for the club since his debut in 2021, and if talks can’t be revisited he will be the most sought-after half in the game after November 1.
It has been a huge year for the halfback. He won the premiership with the Roosters after returning from a syndesmosis injury, made his State of Origin debut for Queensland and debuted for Australia at No.7 in Sunday night’s 36-22 win over Fiji.
Read more: Tom Trbojevic Hat-Trick Saves Kangaroos in 36-22 Win Over Fiji
The Roosters’ decision came on the same day the Canberra Raiders withdrew their record offer to NSW Origin forward Hudson Young, as clubs push for answers before the open market begins on Sunday 1 November.
Walker had not commented publicly on the Roosters’ decision at the time of writing.
More News
- Sam Walker Set to Decide Roosters Future Before Cook Islands Test
- Hudson Young’s Record Raiders Offer Withdrawn as Chiefs Circle
- Tom Trbojevic Hat-Trick Saves Kangaroos in 36-22 Win Over Fiji
- Bradman Best Confirms He’ll Test Free Agency on November 1
- Matt Burton Cleared to Test Open Market by Bulldogs
