The Sydney Roosters are reportedly working overtime in a desperate bid to keep young star Joseph Suaalii at the club, despite him already signing for Rugby Australia nearly 12 months ago.
Suaalii’s exile to rugby union was one of the biggest stories across both sports last year but since the Wallabies’ disastrous year and the well-documented financial problems of Rugby Australia, his move has been called into question.
The 20-year-old inked a three-year deal worth around $1.6 million per year but despite the incredible money, the Roosters are keen to get him to backflip on the deal.
With fellow teammate Joey Manu set to also jump codes, Suaalii could be lured back into the NRL from next season and beyond.
“There has been some talk across the weekend that everyone there has been doing everything possible to try and convince Joseph Suaalii to backflip on his (big) deal with rugby,” Bishop told SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“This is of course on the back of (likely) losing Joey Manu to French Rugby. “So, watch this space with the Roosters.
“Basically that’s what they’re saying, they’re trying to retain Suaalii as a result of that (Manu leaving).
“Nothing’s confirmed (yet).”
Suaalii has had calls to backflip on his deal several times from members of both codes, with rugby league fans eager to see him remain in the sport, whilst rugby union fans worry about the financial future of the sport if the deal was to go ahead.
The 20-year-old has made 46 appearances in his first three seasons in the NRL, scoring 24 tries and kicking 46 goals for the tricolours.