A race involving up to six clubs is taking shape amid the news Storm superstar Ryan Papenhuyzen could test his value on the open market, sparking a $1 million bidding war. The gun fullback has previously made it clear his preference is to stay in Melbourne, but there’s now a major sticking point in negotiations — his salary. The SMH is reporting Storm powerbrokers want to offer him only $750,000 on his new deal which marks a significant drop his from reported current $1.
1 million salary, including endorsements. Watch every game of the 2024 Pacific Championships with expert analysis LIVE with no ad-breaks during play, on Kayo. New to Kayo? Start your free trial today > Now Papenhuyzen’s set to hit the open market, and there’ll be no shortage of suitors ready to table bids for one of the game’s most talented fullbacks.
The Bulldogs and Dragons have already been linked with a play for his services, while the Eels emerged as a surprise landing spot mid-season. So where could the superstar No.1 land? Here foxsports.
com.au analyses potential landing spots for Papenhuyzen in 2026. DRAGONS St George Illawarra shapes as the most obvious destination for Papenhuyzen given Shane Flanagan has been aggressive in his recruitment drive since arriving ahead of the 2024 season.
Ben Hunt’s contract situation is up in the air, and it’s looking increasingly likely he’s played his last game for the Red V. His departure could clear a mountain of salary cap space on top of what the D.