Speculation is rife about Payne Haas’ Brisbane Broncos future as his next move remains unclear.
While Haas is contracted at Red Hill until the end of 2024, where he plays in 2023 is unknown after he originally sought a release from his current deal in May.
According to reports, Haas is currently earning around $750,000 a season and is hoping to earn his market value of $1 million a year, leading his management to reconvene with Broncos powerbrokers at the end of the season.
With the star prop certain to demand better financial terms, The Sydney Morning Herald even reported that he could consider a move to a cashed-up European rugby franchise.
In response to those reports, The Daily Telegraph’s David Riccio said he wouldn’t be too confident in Haas staying beyond this year if he were a Broncos fan.
“This one’s a little concerning if I’m a Broncos fan,” Riccio said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“You just know it’s going to rear its head as soon as the final whistle blows for the Broncos this season.
“It’s a major issue within that football club in relation to whether Payne Haas remains at the Broncos.
“If I’m a Broncos fan I’m not too confident, I feel like there’s movement here.
“We’ve heard recently about European Rugby for Payne Haas, honestly that’s just pie in the sky stuff to try and create tension and the prospect that hey, ‘You better come to the party Broncos or we’re looking at other options’.”
While rival NRL clubs are yet to make offers, Riccio says room will be made to accommodate Haas should he again seek a release from his Brisbane deal.
“It’s never a good indication,” Riccio said.
“The catch will be which club can afford him next year.
“A lot of clubs will just make room, they’ll just make room for people like Payne Haas.
“We’re sitting on a landmine here where it’s going to explode post-season big time.”
Comparing Haas’ future to Greg Inglis’ move away from Melbourne, SEN’s Andrew Voss pondered whether any demand could be fulfilled post this year’s Rugby League World Cup.
“I remember when Greg Inglis signed with South Sydney,” Voss said.
“It was Christmas week when he was delivered to the Rabbitohs.
“Payne Haas could be a post-World Cup story where he ends up.”
Haas’ immediate attention will be focused on the Broncos’ season as they hope to reignite their top-four hopes at home against the Storm on Friday night.