Reece Walsh’s future has been cast into some doubt with the Broncos confirming the star fullback has not signed a contract extension with the club.
It was widely reported in March the Queensland State of Origin No. 1 had agreed to a $5.5 million, five-year extension that would make him the highest paid player in the history of the club.
Six weeks later, the club has confirmed the 21-year-old is still yet to put pen to paper.
After a red hot start to the 2024 season, Walsh has only increased his potential worth on the open market.
It leaves the Broncos with six months to lock Walsh down before he could go on the open market following the November 1 deadline when he will be free to speak with opposition clubs.
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It is a huge hit for Broncos fans after rumours suggested Walsh had been locked away alongside Ezra Mam, Payne Haas, Pat Carrigan and Adam Reynolds.
The widespread reports in March stated Walsh had committed to the club through to the end of the 2029 season.
His current contract expires at the end of the 2025 season.
Walsh had earlier this year insisted reports of his re-signing were not true.
Walsh posted a photo of himself and his daughter on Instagram in March with the caption: “Don’t believe everything you read. No deal has been signed.”
Broncos boss Dave Donaghy confirmed the news when speaking to The Daily Telegraph’s Phil Rothfield.
“We’re doing everything we can to retain Reece,” he said.
Rothfield said on Sky Sports Radio on Sunday there is a “little bit of concern” for the Broncos.
Having spoken to Reece Walsh’s manager, Rothfield said Walsh will not commit to the Broncos for the $1.1 million per-year offer and will instead push for a deal worth up to $1.4 million. That amount would put Walsh on the same pay packet as Nathan Cleary at Penrith and Kalyn Ponga at the Knights.
“I’m not sure they’ve got too much to worry about,” Rothfield said.
“It was reported a month ago he was on the verge of signing a $5.5 million deal over five years. I spoke to his manager, who told me there was absolutely no way that he’ll agree to $1.1 million a year. He believes he’s closer to $1.4 million over five years. It’s the same money as Ponga. The same money as Cleary.”
The veteran rugby league reporter added: “He is a superstar in the making. He’s the most marketable footballer in the competition.
“I think it’ll play out and it will finish up OK for the Broncos over the next few weeks.
“There’s a little bit of concern if it does drag onto November and cashed up clubs like the Roosters with their $4 million war chest will no doubt pounce if it’s not wrapped up by then.”
— You can read the full details in Rothfield’s Sunday Telegraph column