NRL: Titans star Fifita at centre of three-club tug of war

The future of Gold Coast Titans star player David Fifita is up in the air as three clubs are now competing for his talents.

The Penrith Panthers have entered the race to sign the Titans forward after holding discussions in Sydney.

Despite Fifita’s efforts, the Titans are struggling in 16th place on the ladder for the 2024 NRL season.

Fifita has a contract clause that allows him to request a release by Thursday at 8pm AEST, coinciding with the start of Round 10.

If he doesn’t exercise this option, he will become a free agent for the 2025 season.

As reported, Fifita made a trip to Sydney on Sunday for a meeting with Panthers coach Ivan Cleary.

Subsequently, Penrith put forward a three-year deal of $850,000 per season.

The Panthers have recently seen some players depart via agency, including standout prop James Fisher-Harris, who is set to move to the Warriors at season’s end.

This move will create about $1 million room in the salary cap.

Even though Fifita’s market value is believed to be over a million dollars, rumours indicate that Penrith are hesitant to offer such a salary.

According to The Daily Telegraph, the St George Illawarra Dragons have also entered into negotiations with Fifita.

With the $850,000 initially set aside for Zac Lomax in 2025, the Dragons might surpass the Panthers offer considering their cap space and expiring contracts.

Meanwhile, the Sydney Roosters have thrown their hat in the ring with a $3.3 million four-year deal, translating to $825,000 annually.

A decision from Fifita is expected within the next 48 hours.

Sports news