A warning shot has been fired across Parramatta’s bow after it emerged that rival clubs had expressed an interest in signing star five-eighth Dylan Brown
Brown isn’t going anywhere in the short term but is about to enter the last year of his existing deal and can officially begin talking to clubs from November 1.
It is believed some of the Eels’ rivals have already been asked whether they would be open to bidding for the young New Zealander, who has an option in his contract at the Eels for the 2023 season.
Parramatta would be loath to lose Brown, who has fast become a pivotal piece of their plans. However, The Australian was told that at least two clubs had asked to be kept informed on the 21-year-old and Parramatta look to have a fight on their hands to tie him down to a long-term deal.
Brown is among a handful of big names up for grabs at the Eels from November 1, chief among them being captain Clint Gutherson and hooker Reed Mahoney. Both will want upgrades on their existing deals.
So too backrower Isaiah Papali’i, Oregon Kaufusi and potentially NSW front rower Junior Paulo. Those five alone are likely to chew up more than $2.5 million of the salary cap. Brown won’t come cheap either, meaning the Eels will do well to fit them all in.
Parramatta have an insurance policy for Brown in the shape of Jake Arthur – the son of coach Brad Arthur. Arthur played three games in first grade earlier this year when Brown was suspended and acquitted himself well, confirming the suspicion that he is destined for a long career in first grade.
He too comes off contract in just over a year.
Replies
I hope not. He is my favourite player. Brilliant defender. Learning his trade in attack. But BA could see this as an oppurtunity to bring his son in first grade. If D Brown leaves I expect him to flourish at his new club.
I wouldn't be surprised if Brad Arthur is driving Browns price up so his son can step up and take the vacant spot.
Scott
Lol
Wiz
Gold Wiz.
Realy, don't think BA is shopping him around. And he carn,t stop other clubs from having a look. Nothing to do with Jacob Arthur.
Wtf!!
If DB is committed long term and wanting to put in 100% and focus on his footy then I would keep him over MM and JA
We need to keep DB but something tells me his manager is interested purely in one thing $$. He could find himself starring for the Wests Tigers or Dragons.
Starring? Behind those packs, in those teams? He may be the best player in those sides but the way they're going and have been going recently, he'd be the best player in a non-finals team.
I should have put air quotes around the word "starring". My point is I get the feeling his manager would be happy for him playing for the Lithgow Shamrocks if the dollar was right. There's always a lot of noise around Dylan and where he's headed next. All-Blacks are an option apparently lol
-
1
-
2
-
3
-
4
-
5
of 6 Next