Cherry-Evans’ NRL future in doubt as Manly weigh contract offer

Manly Sea Eagles captain Daly Cherry-Evans is seeking a two-year contract extension beyond 2025, despite earlier speculation that he could retire at the end of the season.

The 35-year-old halfback, who has played his entire career at Manly, now hopes to extend his stay until at least 2027.

However, reports suggest the Sea Eagles are only willing to offer Cherry-Evans a one-year deal, creating uncertainty about his long-term future.

With negotiations ongoing, rival clubs are monitoring the situation, particularly the Dolphins and Dragons.

The Dolphins, based in Cherry-Evans’ home town of Redcliffe, are reportedly waiting to see how talks with Manly unfold before making a move.

Meanwhile, the Dragons — who are struggling to find stability in their halves –are rumoured to be considering a play for the veteran, given his past connection with coach Shane Flanagan.

A major sticking point in Cherry-Evans’ negotiations is his salary.

Having been one of the NRL’s highest-paid players, earning $1 million per season, he will likely need to accept a significant pay cut — potentially down to around $600,000 per year — to remain at Manly.

This follows a common trend for ageing stars, with players like Paul Gallen and Ben Hunt having taken reduced deals late in their careers.

Despite interest from elsewhere, many believe Cherry-Evans will remain with the Sea Eagles, given his strong ties to the club and his settled family life on Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

However, if negotiations stall, the prospect of a late-career switch — particularly to Queensland — remains a possibility.

For now, all eyes are on Manly to see if they can reach a deal that satisfies both the club and their long-serving captain as they tackle on the rest of the 2025 NRL season.

Next up for the Sea Eagles is a clash with the unbeaten Canberra Raiders this Sunday, and top rugby league bookmakers have Manly as $1.55 favourites to salute at 4 Pines Park.

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